The ICCE was pleased to contribute once again to the advancement of youth sport in Africa, participating in the 2025 African Mini Basketball Forum held in Porto-Novo, Benin, from April 24 to 27. Representing both ICCE and the ICOACHKIDS global movement, Guillermo Calvo served as a FIBA-appointed expert at the event, supporting the development of coaches and reinforcing the importance of youth-centered, inclusive sport.
Organized by the FIBA Regional Office in Africa with the support of the FIBA Foundation and the Beninese Basketball Federation, the four-day convention brought together 13 coaches from 12 African countries, plus 50 local coaches, and over 400 children aged 5 to 12. It was the sixth edition of the African Mini Basketball Forum and marked a significant milestone in the region’s growing commitment to grassroots sport and sustainable coach education.
Guillermo led the technical and educational delivery of the Forum alongside Coaches Touré and Keita, guiding coaches through both theoretical and practical sessions. These workshops emphasized playful learning, safe environments, and coaching practices aligned with children’s developmental needs, core values shared by ICCE and ICOACHKIDS.
As part of ICCE’s mission to elevate coaching quality around the world, this event offered a key platform for coaches to develop their competencies in child-centered delivery and to adopt philosophies that prioritize long-term engagement and personal growth. Coaches were encouraged not only to absorb content but to reflect critically on their role as educators, mentors and community leaders.
“This is not just a training event for children,” said Calvo. “It’s a spark for transformation. Coaches are leaving here ready to activate Mini Basketball in their countries, and more importantly, to do so with purpose, joy, and care for children’s wellbeing.”
Attendees also benefited from the presence of Mini Basketball ambassador and former French international player Ian Mahinmi, who brought inspiration, energy, and visibility to the movement. His involvement further reinforced the importance of creating positive early sport experiences led by trained and motivated coaches.
By the end of the Forum, each coach was committed to implementing everything they had learned in their home country, continuing the ripple effects of the initiative. Equipment donations to the Beninese Basketball Federation further supported the long-term sustainability of grassroots development in the region.
ICCE’s engagement in Porto-Novo builds on its continued collaboration with FIBA and reflects our shared commitment to high-quality, inclusive coach development worldwide. Events like this demonstrate the power of international partnerships to drive lasting change at the community level.
We look forward to continuing our work in supporting Mini Basketball coaching globally.
