FIBA Penalize Malian Basketball Federation For Sexual Abuse Of Minors

The Malian basketball federation (FMBB) has faced heavy penalties from FIBA, the international governing body for basketball, following revelations of sexual abuse of minors within the federation. The sanctions were announced on June 21, 2023.

The former coach of Mali’s U19 national team, Amadou Bamba, has been banned for life from holding any position or participating in any FIBA or FIBA-related activities. He has also been fined CHF 80,000. 

Several other authorities within the FMBB have received suspensions and fines as well. Harouna Maiga, the former president of the FMBB, has been suspended for eight years and fined CHF 20,000. 

Seydou Maiga, the former secretary general, has been suspended for six years and fined CHF 10,000. Amadou Traoré, the former 1st vice-president, has received a four-year suspension and a fine of CHF 5,000. 

Fatoumata Diallo, the former assistant coach of the Mali national team, has been suspended for two years.

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In response to the allegations of systemic sexual harassment within the FMBB, FIBA initiated disciplinary proceedings against ten individuals, including coaches and FMBB officials. 

Provisional suspensions were issued until the conclusion of the proceedings. FIBA has not only imposed sanctions but has also worked towards creating a safer environment for young basketball players in Mali. 

They partnered with the “Fondation Terre des Hommes” (Tdh), an organization experienced in safeguarding children in sports, to establish a basketball safeguard and protection service for young players and vulnerable individuals in Mali.

FIBA has focused on raising awareness, providing education and resources, and improving protection measures within the Mali basketball landscape. 

They have conducted workshops with youth players, trained local safeguarding focal points, implemented a secure reporting system, and offered support to survivors of abuse. 

The FIBA officials have collaborated with the FMBB and Tdh and recruited safeguarding experts and implemented a safeguarding policy.