The Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) has named a five-member contingent for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Senegal, set for October 31 to November 13.

Sprinter Kabake Lansana, 17, and swimmer Roxanne Kirarock, 15, will represent PNG, under the leadership of Chef de Mission Dame Iammo Gapi Launa - PNG's first female Olympian.

In a statement, Dame Iammo said it was an honour to lead the young team.

“It is an honour for me to lead our young athletes at these Games, and to represent Papua New Guinea,” Dame Iammo said.

"Roxanne and Kabake have earned their place through hard work and commitment, and we are very proud of them," she said.

Both athletes have international experience this year, with Kirarock setting personal bests at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games in July and Lansana competing at the World Athletics U20 Championships in Eugene in August.

PNG received one quota place each in athletics and swimming, allocated by the International Olympic Committee based on World Aquatics rankings and international federation criteria, and not on open entry.

Dame Iammo said expectations for Dakar are clear.

"Our aim is simple, to perform at our very best. We expect our athletes to set new personal bests, and if that takes them onto a podium, we’ll be thrilled,” Dame Iammo said.

The two-time Olympian, who carried PNG's flag at Los Angeles 1984, said Dakar is a key step toward Brisbane 2032.

“Dakar is also one step on a longer road. Next year we have the Pacific Games in Tahiti and the Commonwealth Youth Games in Malta. And our goal for these athletes is to keep building towards the Olympic Games in 2032 Brisbane as their target.”

 She said the experience would be valuable for the young athletes.

"For a young athlete, this kind of international experience is priceless. They will learn how to handle pressure, how to prepare in a world-class environment, and where they stand against peers," she said.

She had a final message for the two athletes, “To Roxanne and Kabake, you have already made your families, your communities and your country proud. Go to Dakar with confidence, enjoy every moment, and give it your very best. All Papua New Guinea is behind you.”

Meanwhile, Lansana will be coached by Rellie Kaputin, while Kirarock will be coached by Reed Douyere.

Representing PNG at Dakar will be the Youth Olympic debut for both athletes.