Seydou Keita and Joan LaPorta Hand Out Nets

I just returned from an amazing few days in Bamako, Mali for the launch of a new school and center founded by FC Barcelona’s Foundation. FC Barcelona’s “XICS” center – complete with a computer room! – offers education, health care and professional training to some of Bamako’s most vulnerable children. 

Malaria No More had the great fortune of participating in the Center’s launch alongside FCB President Joan Laporta, Malian star and FCB player, Seydou Keita, the Malian Minister of Health and many others.  With funds raised from participants here in the States of our “More Than a Club: Kick it to Malaria” partnership with FC Barcelona, we were able to provide 1,000 mosquito nets to children and their families. 

One of the most compelling moments of the day’s events – aside from a gripping football match that went to penalty shots! – was Keita speaking to a group of wide-eyed children about how he didn’t have a net when he was a child and of the importance of sleeping under them.  Many thanks to Keita for being a great role model!

Categories:Africa, On-The-Ground