Fifteen-year-old Youssef Tazi has made history by successfully summiting Kang Yatse II, reaching an impressive altitude of 6,250 meters on Sunday, August 2, at 9:13 a.m. local time. This remarkable achievement, confirmed by a press release from his team, positions Tazi as the youngest climber from Morocco, as well as the youngest Arab and African to reach such heights. His ascent not only marks a personal triumph but also serves as a significant milestone in his long-term mountaineering endeavor titled 'Road to Everest 2028,' which is designed to prepare him for an ambitious attempt to conquer the world’s tallest peak.

The climb to the summit began from the main camp at an altitude of 5,070 meters shortly after midnight. Tazi's team characterized the final stretch of the ascent as particularly challenging due to harsh weather conditions. Climbers faced frigid temperatures that plummeted to about minus 10 degrees Celsius, coupled with poor visibility from thick fog and deep snow that obscured parts of the route. The expedition faced setbacks when inclement weather further diminished visibility, necessitating a brief halt in their ascent until conditions improved.

Despite these obstacles, Tazi's determination led him to resume his climb, and he ultimately reached the summit without the aid of supplementary oxygen, adhering to safety protocols by carrying only an emergency oxygen cylinder. The conditions on the day of the summit were so severe that many climbers were forced to abandon their attempts; out of 29 climbers on the route, only 16 succeeded in reaching the top, while the others prudently retreated for safety.

Accompanying Tazi during this significant expedition was his father, Omar Tazi, who supported his son until approximately 5,500 meters, at which point he decided to stop to ensure Youssef could continue safely with the rest of the climbing team. Following this incredible accomplishment, Tazi expressed his gratitude to his support team and shared an inspiring message for young people everywhere: 'Believe in your dreams, work for them, and never give up, no matter how difficult the challenges become.' This summit adds to Youssef Tazi’s impressive resume of major climbs as he gears up for his future ascent of Mount Everest in 2028.

As reported by moroccoworldnews.com.