Ibrahim Kanté, the founder of Scoop Soccer, visited Mali in early January 2026. Ibrahim brought to Dagabo 20 barrels of donated soccer gear plus two fantastic, professional-quality goals generously donated by Keeper Goals. Much of the Village came out to help set up the new goals and to participate in or witness the Scoop Soccer program.
Ibrahim and team ran a soccer clinic for children ages 7 to 17, providing training, mentorship, and encouragement through the sport. He also organized a tournament called the Scoop Soccer Championship, which included 10 teams from surrounding villages, as well as a few teams from Ouéléssébougou. The young men’s team from Dagabo won! Ibrahim presented a beautiful trophy to the winners, which was proudly passed around and celebrated by friends, coaches, fans, and proud mothers from the Dagabo Women’s Committee.
During his visit, Ibrahim recognized and worked to address a long-standing concern. As he reported:
“During our time in Dagabo, we noticed that many young boys have left the village to work in the gold mines in search of a better life and financial opportunities. Unfortunately, from experience, many do not return due to illness or death. Because of this, we held a meeting with the youth committee to discuss the dangers of gold mining and to emphasize that it is not a long-term solution. Given the amount of available land in the village, we strongly believe that farming offers a safer and more sustainable path to a better life and financial stability.
We also met with the mothers, who naturally want the best for their sons. We encouraged them not to push their children toward the gold mines, but instead to motivate them to stay, farm, and help guide the younger generation. We discussed the importance of gardening as well, and I will meet with the fathers to help identify spaces for community gardens.“
One Global Village’s team continues to seek opportunities for youth to empower themselves and their community in safe and beneficial ways. The Scoop Soccer Program is one path offering hope, skills, and options for the future. We are thankful for Ibrahim’s leadership in this program and his dedication to inspiring and supporting youth in Mali.