Jamila Lunkuse and Halimah Nakaayi will carry Uganda’s flag in a different but meaningful way after being named Athlete Role Models for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.
The two athletes, known for their calm presence and consistency on the international stage, now step into mentorship roles.
Their task will be simple but important guide, support and inspire young athletes competing at the Games.
Lunkuse, one of Uganda’s most experienced swimmers, and Nakaayi, a world 800m champion, will share lessons from their journeys.
They will take part in workshops and engagements focused on competition, handling pressure, career growth, injury prevention and mental preparation.
The Athlete Role Model programme has been part of the Youth Olympic Games since the Singapore 2010 Youth Olympic Games.
It connects young athletes with experienced professionals who understand what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Dakar 2026 will run from 31 October to 13 November, bringing together about 2,700 athletes across Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly. Each sport will have at least one Athlete Role Model.
Lunkuse and Nakaayi join a respected global group that includes names like Clarisse Agbegnenou and Rayssa Leal.
