Judoka Arno Yafunga Botay Prepares to Represent Refugee Olympic Team at Dakar 2026

Fifteen-year-old judoka Arno Yafunga Botay is set to compete for the Refugee Olympic Team in the under-55kg category at the upcoming Dakar 2026 Youth Games, marking a historic first appearance for a refugee team at a Youth Olympics.

Journey to the Mat

Arno's family fled the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2017 after threats and an attack on their home. Following a period in the Kakuma refugee camp in north-west Kenya, the family settled in Nairobi. Arno began learning judo from his father, Arnold, watching him practice before taking up the sport himself at age seven. Training brought financial and logistical hurdles, including difficulties affording equipment and school fees.

Historic Milestone

• Tournament: Dakar 2026 Youth Games
• Category: Under-55kg judo
• Significance: First refugee team appearance at a Youth Olympics; first Olympic event hosted on African soil.
• Mentorship: The six-strong team is mentored by Olympic marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge.

Practical Implications and Verification

The inclusion of the Refugee Olympic Team highlights ongoing International Olympic Committee (IOC) support programs for displaced athletes. Readers and sports enthusiasts can verify official schedules, team announcements, and qualification updates directly through the International Olympic Committee (IOC) official website or authorized sports news outlets.

Outlook

Supported by his family and local dojo community in Nairobi, Arno aims to use the platform to inspire other displaced individuals and demonstrate that refugees can succeed on the international sporting stage.