Mayamba Football Academy – more than a football school
The Mayamba Football Academy (MFA) shows just how important football is in The Gambia, especially for young people growing up in challenging circumstances. The academy was founded in 2017 by Muhammed Camara, a talented footballer with a deep commitment to the future of his country. While many Gambians – often out of necessity – attempt to reach Europe via “the backway,” Muhammed chose a different path: investing in the youth of his village, Mayamba, and the surrounding communities.
For the children, the arrival of the academy was a celebration. They train together, feel part of something bigger, and work on their development – both as footballers and as individuals. But becoming a member also means taking responsibility. Respect for parents and elders, dedication to school, and working toward a diploma are essential values within the academy. Football matters, but building a future in The Gambia matters just as much.
In the early years, the academy had almost no equipment, making proper training nearly impossible. Thanks to donations from RKSV Schijndel and others, this changed. With balls, shirts, and shorts, the group quickly grew, and today players of all ages can train seriously and consistently.
Still, the challenges remain significant. There is a shortage of basic materials such as balls, cones, bibs, and especially football boots. The facilities are minimal: no changing rooms and no fenced pitch, even though a marked field is required to participate in official competitions.
Matches and competitions
The senior team competes annually in regional leagues and even reached a promotion play-off for the national third division once. Youth teams also participate in competitions and exchange matches, but financial resources are limited.
The MFA works with three age categories:
- 8–12 years
- 13–15 years
- 16–19 years
For each group, the academy aims to organize three exchange trips per year with other football schools, such as:
- AFIA Football Academy (Banjul)
- Future Star Football Academy (Bakau)
- FIG Football Academy (Serekunda)
The first exchange – a trip to Banjul – was an unforgettable experience. Small buses took the children to Barra, followed by the ferry crossing to Banjul, and then onward to the AFIA Academy. For many, it was their first real “school trip”: travelling together, singing, laughing, enjoying a drink and a simple lunch. A day they will remember for a long time.
Help us make these experiences possible
Each exchange costs €85 per trip, covering transport, the ferry crossing, water, and a light lunch. We are looking for sponsors to help make more of these exchanges possible in the future.
With your support, we can offer the youth of Mayamba not only training, but also the experience of real matches, new places, and new opportunities.
Together, we can help Muhammed Camara use football to create a brighter future for the children of The Gambia.