Abidjan, 1 February 2024 - Against the backdrop of the Africa Cup of Nations, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and Mission89 took centre stage to shed light on safe and orderly migration pathways for 80 aspiring Ivorian youth eager to pursue professional careers in sports, particularly football. The joint initiative aimed to enhance awareness among young athletes and their parents about potential risks associated with irregular migration, such as exploitation and trafficking, on the journey towards their dreams.

The forum featured a spirited football game among the young athletes and an eye-opening video presentation on irregular migration. Afterwards, enriching discussions ensued between a returned Ivorian migrant and the engaged audience. While it is crucial to highlight the dangers of irregular migration, the event emphasized the importance of sharing locally available alternatives. Mr. Gnaman from the Youth Employment Agency stressed, "Knowledge is power," as he provided valuable information on local opportunities in Côte d’Ivoire.

The young participants were privileged to interact with Mr Arouna Koné, a former Ivorian international footballer, who encouraged them and their parents to explore safe and regular migration routes within the sports domain. During the event, a licensed FIFA football agent also warned about fraudulent recruiters deceiving young athletes and their parents into paying exorbitant fees to join supposedly prestigious football clubs abroad.

At the end of the event, a captivating juggling challenge unfolded, with three talented young participants earning a coveted reward: a pair of entry tickets to witness the highly anticipated quarter-final clash between Côte d’Ivoire and Mali at one of the vibrant fanzones in Abidjan. Among the triumphant trio was Naomie Abbe, a remarkable 15-year-old aspiring footballer harbouring dreams of joining esteemed female clubs such as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) or Olympique Lyonnais (OL) in the future. Naomie expressed the significance of such events for aspiring soccer enthusiasts: "For young football players like me, these experiences are crucial. Interacting with luminaries like Arouna Kone and a FIFA soccer agent provides invaluable insights into the realities of the sport and guidance on how to prepare for a successful career in athletics."

The event concluded with impactful statements and recommendations from key stakeholders, including Ms Uzra Zeya, U.S. Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights; Mr Mamadou Touré, Minister for Youth Promotion, Professional Integration, and Civic Service; Mr Roger Kouassi, advisor to the President of the Ivorian Football Federation; and Mr David Preux, IOM Chief of Mission in Côte d’Ivoire.

Ms. Uzra Zeya highlighted the significance of the Youth Forum, stating, "This distinctive event not only celebrates the African Cup of Nations but also underscores the vital role of fostering safe migration, uniting people across borders for shared objectives. While migration is positive, it is crucial to acknowledge the reality that migrants are susceptible to exploitation and abuse." She passionately urged, "We must intensify our collective efforts to combat trafficking in persons”.

In his closing remarks, David Preux underlined the positive impact that sport and migration can have on development, advocating for a future where young athletes can pursue excellence without bureaucratic obstacles or the perils of irregular migration. "Together, let's imagine a future where young athletes, freed from bureaucratic obstacles or the dangers of irregular migration routes, can strive for excellence, inspire generations, and, in doing so, contribute to the harmonious development of our global society," he urged.

Similarly, Mr. Roger Kouassi stressed the collective responsibility to create sustainable and regular migration routes for African athletes, ensuring that every young athlete can pursue their dream without jeopardizing their future or that of their community.

The Minister for Youth Promotion, Professional Integration, and Civic Service expressed gratitude to IOM and Mission 89 for organizing this vital activity to raise awareness among young people and their parents. In his address to the youth, he urged them to listen to role models like Arouna Koné, who left Côte d’Ivoire regularly and safely to pursue a career in sports.

The youth forum was held in collaboration with the United States Department of State’s Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM) through the Africa Regional Migration Program (ARMP), underscoring the international commitment to fostering safe and orderly migration for the future stars of African sports.

For more information, please contact:

Lucas Chandellier, IOM Regional Office for West and Central Africa, lchandellier@iom.int

Ifedayo Adeleye, Mission89, media@mission89.com