Social Outreach: Olympique de Marseille Brings Joy to Children at “La Case des Enfants”
Residents of “La Case des Enfants,” children from the Bingerville Boys’ Orphanage, and children from the Abobo SOS Village enjoyed an exceptional day on Friday, July 17, 2026, during a visit by the Olympique de Marseille delegation to “La Case des Enfants” in Plateau.
Led by its President, Stephane Richard, the delegation from the prestigious French club included several executives and players who came to share a special moment with the children.
The First Lady, Mrs. Dominique Ouattara—Founding President of the Children Of Africa Foundation—was represented at the ceremony by Mrs. Nadine Sangare, the Foundation’s Director.v
Mrs. Nadine Sangare highlighted the mission of “La Case des Enfants,” which for nearly thirty years has welcomed children who have experienced abandonment, hardship, or suffering, providing them with a safe living environment, an education, and the hope of a better future.
For the representative of Madame Dominique Ouattara, this visit goes far beyond the scope of a mere sporting encounter. “For these children, seeing representatives of a club as prestigious as Olympique de Marseille up close is much more than a visit: it is a message of hope. It is proof that dreams are valid and that, with hard work, perseverance, and self-confidence, anything is possible,” she declared. She also highlighted that the Olympique de Marseille players serve as true sources of inspiration for these young people. “The stars you are to millions of fans will make our children’s eyes light up today. Sometimes, a look of wonder, the birth of a dream, or the discovery of a calling can change a whole life,” she stated, before expressing Madame Dominique Ouattara’s gratitude to the entire delegation for this gesture of solidarity, which will leave an indelible memory in the children’s hearts.
Speaking in turn, Mr. Siandou Fofana, Minister of Tourism and Leisure, welcomed President Stéphane Richard, as well as the executives and players of Olympique de Marseille—partners in the “Sublime Côte d’Ivoire” national strategy. He commended their decision to include this visit in their itinerary, noting that it demonstrates a commitment to leveraging the club’s renown for the benefit of the most vulnerable children.
The Minister emphasized the educational significance of the encounter. In his view, the Olympique de Marseille players embody courage, resilience, and the drive to surpass one’s limits. He reminded the children that the greatest victories often arise from overcoming trials, hardships, and failures. Encouraging them to believe in their future, he urged them to cultivate excellence, perseverance, and a positive attitude, confident that these values would enable them to realize their ambitions. He also expressed the hope that this visit would mark the beginning of a lasting social partnership between Olympique de Marseille and La Case des Enfants, providing these young people with guidance, mentors, and greater opportunities to build their future.
Deeply moved, Mr. Stéphane Richard, President of Olympique de Marseille, remarked that this meeting was undoubtedly the highlight of the delegation’s visit to Côte d’Ivoire. He noted that football inspires dreams in millions of children around the world and that players are aware of the responsibility that comes with their status.
Addressing the young people, he encouraged them to believe in their abilities and never give up on their ambitions.
He also paid heartfelt tribute to Mrs. Dominique Ouattara for her unwavering commitment to vulnerable children. In his view, the *Case des Enfants* is an initiative that goes far beyond the scope of traditional social work and represents a tremendous investment in the future of Ivorian youth.
“For us, contributing to this cause through our presence today is a source of immense joy,” he declared, before assuring the children that Olympique de Marseille would continue to bring them wonderful, moving experiences.
The visit took place in a particularly warm atmosphere, marked by moments of genuine camaraderie. The little ones expressed their joy and happiness through songs, dance performances, and poems shared with their visitors. Beyond the sporting aspect, the meeting offered the children a true lesson in hope, reminding them that even the most ambitious dreams can become reality when courage, hard work, and determination accompany every step of their journey.