DR Congo have withdrawn because of fears it would clash with the country's elections next year.

Senegal agreed to take over following a meeting between Senegal President Macky Sall and Issa Hayatou, head of the Confederation of African Football (CAF). 

Senegal are currently hosting the Under-20 African Championships, which is due to conclude on Sunday (March 20). 

Gabon were winners of the 2011 Under-23 African Championships to qualify for London 2012 ©Getty Images

The tournament will act as the African qualifying tournament for next year's Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. 

The event had been due to take place in DR Congo between December 5 and 19 but dates still have to be set for the event in Senegal. 

Gabon were shock winners of the inaugural Under-23 African Championship in Morocco four years ago, qualifying for London 2012. 

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