Our project “Inclusive Sport for Young Sahrawi Refugees” achieved its first milestone: From 11-15 May 2025, our partner Unione Italiana Sport Per tutti held a multiplier-training for 25 teachers and educators from all 5 camps.
The aim was to introduce new methods and games that help keep children and youth active and involved in sport and education. Responding to the many needs expressed by training participants, our team discussed additional ways of supporting the work of the Ministry of Education and its regional coordinators.
The visit would have been impossible without the dedication and support of Mr. Jalihenna Mohamed (Counsellor, Ministry of Youth and Sport) and Mr. Ahmed Magai (Ministry of Education). We also express our sincere thanks to the Polisario Front’s Representatives in Austria and Italy, who facilitated the visit, Mr. Mohamed Slama Badi (Vienna) and Mrs. Fatima Mahfoud (Rome).
In parallel to the training, conducted by Ilaria Nobili and Gianluca Pianigiani, SPIN Network Coordinator Stefan Belabed and SPIN Board Member Daniela Conti met with representatives of the Sahrawi leadership as well as key stakeholders in the sport, youth and education field:
– Ministry of Education: Minister Mr. Khatri Adoh, General Secretary Mr.Mustapha Mohamed Fadel
– Ministry of Social Affairs and Women’s Promotion: Minister Mrs. Sueilm Berouk and Senior Staff
– Ministry of Youth and Sport: Minister Mr. Hassanitou Chbellal and Senior Staff
– Sahrawi Red Crescent: General Secretary Mr. Mohamed Sidahmed
– Sahrawi Federal Association for People with Special Needs: Mr. Ragueb Hayay
– Sahrawi Scouts and Childhood Association: General Leader Mr. Jamal Brahim
We were further cordially welcomed at the following visits:
– Abda Mohamed Secondary School (Smara camp)
– Smara Primary School
– School for Children with Autism (Smara camp)
– Museum of Resistance (Rabouni)
Upon the return of the SPIN Team to Austria and Italy, next steps include the coordination of any support effort that can be provided/coordinated by the Sport Inclusion Network. The next project milestone is a series of trainings in all 5 camps in Autumn of 2025 conducted by the multiplier trainers who participated in this training in May 2025.
Should you wish to get in contact for any general information or donations towards the project and the Sahrawi people, please do not hesitate to reach out: info@sportinclusion.net
The project is funded by:
