By GPC Sports Correspondent
Kenyan boxer Ella Demesi will compete in the 51kg category at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games from October 31 to November 13, targeting gold after becoming the country’s first female boxer to qualify for the competition.
The 16-year-old is preparing to represent Kenya at the Games in Senegal, where she will face some of the world’s leading young boxing talents.
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Demesi’s qualification marks a milestone for Kenyan boxing, making her the first female boxer from the country to secure a place at the Youth Olympic Games.
Her interest in boxing began after watching her brother train in the sport. The experience inspired her to take up boxing, which has since developed into a competitive pursuit.
Her coach, David Munuhe, says Demesi’s discipline, eagerness to learn and natural movement stood out from the beginning of her training.
These attributes have contributed to her development as she continues to refine her technique and prepare for the demands of international competition.
Preparations for Dakar are focused on improving her strength, endurance and confidence ahead of her bouts against opponents from other countries.
The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games will be the first edition of the event to be held on African soil, bringing together young athletes from across the world to compete in various sports.
Demesi seeks to inspire more girls
Beyond competing for a medal, Demesi hopes to use the opportunity to represent Kenya internationally, gain experience and encourage more girls to take up boxing.
Her qualification is a significant step for women’s boxing in Kenya, demonstrating the growing opportunities for female athletes to compete in a sport traditionally dominated by men.
As the country’s first female boxer to qualify for the Youth Olympic Games, Demesi will be seeking to translate that achievement into a strong performance in Dakar.
The competition will also expose her to international opponents and provide an opportunity to assess her progress against some of the best young boxers in the world.
Having taken up the sport after watching her brother train, Demesi has progressed to the international stage under Munuhe’s guidance.
She now heads into the biggest test of her young career with the ambition of winning gold and inspiring other Kenyan girls to pursue boxing.
