The Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) and the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) are hosting a cultural event in Kuwait on March 26th, bringing together 99 National Olympic Committees from both continents. The 'From Silk to Sahara' event aims to celebrate shared history and promote peace through cultural exchange, featuring performances from African and Asian artists. The initiative, inspired by ancient trade routes like the Silk Road, marks the beginning of an annual collaboration between ANOCA and OCA, alternating between sporting, educational, and cultural events.

The 4th African Youth Games, held in Angola, showcased the commitment of the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) to youth development. Over 2,000 athletes from 54 countries participated in 21 sports, with Angola demonstrating dominance in judo. The event also featured anti-doping education led by WADA and athlete engagement initiatives. ANOCA announced significant partnerships with FIFA (50 football pitches), World Aquatics (swimming pools), the International Basketball Federation (3x3 basketball development), and the International Canoe Federation (competition equipment), aiming to democratize access to sport across Africa and serve as a qualifier for Dakar 2026.

The upcoming Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games are being positioned as a strategic priority and a crucial test of maturity for the African Olympic movement by the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA). The event, the first Olympic Games ever held in Africa, is seen as an opportunity to consolidate years of investment in sports governance, youth programs, and infrastructure. ANOCA emphasizes collaborative decision-making involving all 54 African National Olympic Committees (NOCs) and the active involvement of athletes in preparations, aiming for a lasting legacy that boosts African sport long after the Games conclude.

The Federation of International Mixed Martial Arts (FIMMA) has been officially founded in Athens, Greece, uniting nearly 50 countries and regions in a concerted effort to secure MMA's place in the Olympic Games. Co-founded by Gordon Tang and Isidoros Kouvelos, FIMMA aims to establish a transparent, athlete-centered governing body, partnering with the International Olympic Academy to develop coaching and referee standards. The organization is actively pursuing inclusion in continental games and has garnered support from various Olympic movement leaders, signaling a significant step towards MMA's Olympic recognition.

The fourth edition of the African Youth Games will be held in Angola from December 10-20, featuring over 3,000 athletes from 54 African nations. Organized by the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA), the Games serve as a crucial qualification pathway for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, the first Youth Olympics in Africa. This year's edition introduces a multi-city hosting model and a record 33 sports, including urban and traditional African games.