Dar es Salaam. Just a few meters from where FC Barcelona’s rising star Lamine Yamal was born and raised, live three young Tanzanians Jabir, Tariq, and Barka Seif who are currently developing their football skills in top-tier academies in Spain.
This town, now hailed as a global hub for football talent development, has become a cradle of dreams for these boys from one Tanzanian family.
To an ordinary observer, it might sound like an impossible dream, but for Seif Mpanda, the father of the boys it is the result of difficult decisions, relentless sacrifice, and far-sighted vision.
As one of the few Tanzanians who dared to cross borders for the sake of his children’s future, Seif chose to completely change his life in pursuit of the dream of seeing his sons play professional football in Europe.
“It’s true, we decided to give up luxury. Instead of buying fancy cars or building comfortable homes, every penny we had was invested in the children. It’s a huge cost, but we believe one day the fruits will be enjoyed not just by our family, but by the whole nation,” said Seif.
In a special interview with The BizLens, Seif said that his children’s current success is proof that meaningful investment can yield tremendous results.
At present, Jabir, the eldest, is on the verge of signing his first professional contract, a major step that could open even more doors for his siblings.
Seif recently took part in a strategic meeting organized by Tanzania’s Ministry of Culture, Arts and Sports, aimed at strengthening the country’s sports sector.
During the meeting, Seif received formal recognition from the ministry’s Permanent Secretary and Government Spokesperson, Gerson Msigwa, who praised him as a shining example of a parent who understands the value of investing in children’s talent.
Within the Seif family, everyone plays a role. The boys’ mother currently lives with them in Spain, ensuring they receive proper care and close supervision.
“My wife and I sat down and agreed she would stay with the children in Spain while I remain behind, working to support our shared dream.”
The children are currently enrolled in various academies across Spain.
Jabir and Tariq play for Turo, while Barka regarded as a remarkable talent despite being only 11 years old plays for the prestigious Damm academy, known for producing top-tier players.
According to Seif, several scouts from major Spanish clubs are already keeping a close eye on the boys’ development.
Notably, Jabir made history in May last year (2024) when he joined Tanzania’s national team for two friendly matches in Saudi Arabia.
At just 16 years old, he became one of the youngest players ever to wear the national team jersey.
The Seif family’s journey is living proof that the dream of raising a new generation of Tanzanian footballers who can compete in Europe is not a mere fantasy.
It is an achievable goal for those willing to make sacrifices, forgo comfort, and invest wholeheartedly.
How it Was for Lamine Yamal
Lamine was born on July 13, 2007, in Esplugues de Llobregat, near Barcelona, to a father of Moroccan descent and a mother from Equatorial Guinea.
He grew up in a modest Spanish neighborhood, but from a very young age, he showed exceptional talent on the football pitch.
His parents quickly noticed his unusual passion for the game and ensured he joined youth teams as early as possible.
At just seven years old, Lamine joined FC Barcelona’s famous La Masia academy and that’s where his unique story began.
Despite being younger than most of his peers, he stunned coaches with his pace, game intelligence, and incredible ball control.
Coaches at the academy began seeing him as the heir to legends like Messi, Iniesta, and Xavi.
Due to his remarkable talent, he was fast-tracked to higher-level youth teams while still very young.
While his age mates played in their respective age categories, Lamine was already competing against players two to three years older an experience that accelerated his development and allowed him to learn under elite coaches who believed he could become a future star for the club.
In April 2023, at just 15, Lamine was called up to FC Barcelona’s senior squad, becoming the youngest player ever to feature in a La Liga match for the club.
He made his debut as a substitute against Real Betis, making headlines not only for his age but for his fearless and confident display against seasoned professionals.
Since then, Yamal has remained a vital part of Barcelona’s first team, featuring in key La Liga and UEFA Champions League matches.
He has also been called up to Spain’s national team, becoming the youngest player ever to score for La Roja.
His journey from an ordinary street to the legendary Camp Nou is living proof that when talent is given the right opportunity, it can break through any barrier.
