SOMALI FOOTBALL FEDERATION - SOCCER MAGAZINE by Daauus Advertising Agency

SFF President receives Leader of the Year Award

Working with us is an investment in Your Business

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

CONTENTS Message of the president Vibrant Somalia media helps boost our football Somalia inaugurates first ever regional football league Banadir lifts 2016 Super Cup trophy Banadir Sports Club wins 2015-2016 national football league unbeaten Coaches and referees in Middle Shabelle region avail from training courses Jubbaland Football Benefit from SFF’s spread the football initiative FIFA MA refereeing course for Somalia gets to conclusion Football administrators, coaches and referees in Puntland State trained SFF donates 120 beds and football equipment to a children´s rehabilitation Centre Somali FA conducts Club management workshop for elite national league sides Somali FA donates office equipment to Puntland State Branch Somalia begins use of referee communication technology Somalia benefits from its first ever FIFA youth refereeing course Somalia come of age, as our instructors conduct CAF (C) license course The 4th phase of regional development scheme concludes in Galmudug State Youth coaches in Somalia trained at a FIFA course A successful FIFA grassroots program in Somalia SFF Communication officer delivers a lecture at CAF Media Seminar in Cameroon SFF delegation attends FIFA Forward program workshop in Djibouti Somali children enjoy in a football festival Somali FA communication director gains CAF praise Somali Sports Minister lauds for football growth in the country Special assistance program for blind people launched CECAFA acclaims Somali FA boss for winning leader of the year award CECAFA Elects new executive committee, SFF boss comes in for a 5th term CECAFA lauds for football progress in Somalia CECAFA overjoyed by football development in Somalia FIFA RDO official terms Somali FA Boss ˙a hardworking soldier˙ Football Sweetens life for Somali orphans at Turkish School Heegan are 2015 Somali champions Heegan FC collected 2 ceremonial trophies in one week History made in Somalia as first soccer match televised HEEGAN made good performance at CECAFA Kagame cup Horseed crowned 2015 super cup winners Jubaland State president shows his favoritism for football Midnimo FC Wins Division ’C’ League Regional Somali soccer administrators avail from training course SFF Annual General Meeting lauds for fantastic 2015 approaches Somali FA president crowned African football leader of the year for 2015 Somali FA Boss appointed CECAFA Vice president Somali Govt jubilant at the continuation of youth soccer tourneys Somali instructor represents Africa at Core gathering in Geneva Somali President extols FIFA Soccer Clubs and regions benefit from FIFA donation Somalia appreciates CAF for FA president´s Award Somalia marks Int´l Day of Sport for Development and Peace FIFA/CAF security seminar will help reduce risks at African facilities U-17 soccer tourney creation, a crucial step forward Eleven Young age referees promoted to B level

2 3 4 6 7 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 21 22 24 26 28 30 32 34 36 38 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 48 50 51 52 54 55 56 57 58 60 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 70 72 73 74

DIVISION A FOOTBALL CLUBS 77 DIVISION B FOOTBALL CLUBS 78 DIVISION C FOOTBALL CLUBS 79

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

MESSAGE OF THE PRESIDENT

e have come to the successful end of 2016, a year in which a number of development programs had been carried out in the country including some that were unprecedented and helped develop the game in our country. I am thankful to FIFA president Gianni Infantino for coming with new initiatives to accelerate football development in the world and in particularly in Somalia where the new FIFA development programs have been very helpful. Now we look forward to the beginning of 2017.I hope it to be a year full of joy, happiness, peace and prosperity for the entire people of Somalia and in particularly for the football family.The inauguration of the first ever regional football league in Somalia was a milestone, but we have not yet come to the end of the long way and the planned activities are more. In 2017 Somalia is determined to make new approaches both locally and internationally. Another significant move in 2017 will be the launch of Division 4 football league which is mainly intended to get more youths into the game. After past attempts were successful, now all clubs in the elite national league will also have their own junior national league and the SFF will provide all financial assistances to help the formation of the junior teams and the league as well. By the end of 2016, SFF launched a different competition, the domestic youth league with 12 teams in participation. This league will increase to 14 teams from 2017 and it will be an annual event for our youths. As planned the SFF will get artificial turfs installed on football facilities in the regional states of the federal government of Somalia as part of the Spread the Football initiative which has so far yielded positive results in many regions in the country. Participation of international competitions From 2017, Somali Football Federation will increase its participation in international football competitions including some that Somalia had never participated. According to our plans, Somalia will be involved in the below-mentioned competitions. • African Nations Championship-CHAN CUP 2017 Also in 2018 Somalia will start participating in a number

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

of key competitions in Africa which include. • African Cup of Nations qualifications. • CAF champions league. • Confederation Cup. This will be Somalia’s first attempt to participate in African Cup of Nations Qualifications phase since the country fell into anarchy just more than 26 years ago. After we have confirmed our recovery from decades of civil wars and lawlessness, it is time to do a try and I hope it will be a successful attempt for the country. Abdiqani Said Arab SFF President

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

VIBRANT SOMALIA MEDIA HELPS BOOST OUR FOOTBALL

irst I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the very important role that our patriotic Somali journalists are playing in the promotion of football in the country. Somalis were always footballloving people, but for the past two years there has been a big change as the number of viewers of football matches in Somalia increased considerably with football stadiums becoming overcrowded with fans. Local media in the country had a big role in this approach as they changed the way they used to cover football competitions in the country. The establishment of Radio stations and TVs who only broadcast sport and made live coverage also changed a lot by encouraging our footballers and making people love football more. The Somali media conducting monthly votes for the player of the month and the goalkeeper of the month gave our players moral boost. Conducting such vote also taught our people something they didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know before. It also increased the number of football fans in the country. Sports journalists in Somalia had a huge role in bringing foreign footballers into the country, as most of the foreign players in Somalia came through the media after they read stories about Somali football in the mainstream media and contacted local journalists who finally put them in touch with football clubs.

I would like to commend the owners of radio stations and TVs which broadcast only sport and as well as the owners of other media houses who changed the way they used to cover football competitions. My thanks are also due to the Somali nationals running their own news websites who spend much time and energy to write about football activities in the country. Somali Football Federation Media Department developed a very healthy relationship with both local who helped the promotion of our football. I am very hopeful that our cooperation with the patriotic Somali sports journalists will last long and I am fully confident that their efforts to help develop football in Somalia would continue from there. Finally, I want to conclude my speech with sending a big thank you to the patriotic Somali journalists and as well as to our friendly international journalists for taking the time to cover Somalia football in a very high profile way. Shafiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;i Mohyaddin Abokar SFF Communication Director

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

SOMALIA INAUGURATES FIRST EVER REGIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE

he launch of the first ever regional football league in the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s football history, has realized one of the long-standing dreams of Somali Football Federation. The first regional soccer league was successfully opened in the key port city of Kismayo, about 500 kilometers south of the capital Mogadishu on 29th of December 2016. Kismayo is the provincial capital of the semiautonomous Somali State of Jubbaland. The inauguration of the regional football leagues was one of several development initiatives announced by Somali Football Federation

president, Abdiqani Said Arab during his post election address on 31st of August 2014. The inaugural edition of the regional football league gathered 8 football teams which are representing cities and towns in the three regions that the Jubbaland state is made of and will be followed by other leagues to be held in other semiautonomous Somali states. Dowlada Hoose football club took on their Koban FC rivals in the inaugural match which attracted the attention of thousands of spectators including key government officials and football federation leaders. Both teams

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

struggled to secure a win, but the match finally ended in draw 2-2. Jubbaland State vice president, Abdulkader Haji Mahmoud Lugadheere, Somali FA senior vice president, Ali Abdi Mohamed, regional state minister for youth and sport Mohamed Mahmoud Yusuf, SFF education officer, Ali Mohamed Amed and Jubbaland State football Association president, Ahmed Farah Taqal were among several officials who watched Thursdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inaugural match. Jubbaland State vice president, Abdulkader Haji Mahmoud Lugadheere, said it was a great honor for his state to host the inaugural tournament of regional

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

football leagues in the country. He thanked Somali FA for this major approach adding that his government was committed to helping football development as much as they can. “After a long time of preparations and spreading football knowledge across the country, we have finally launched the regional football league in Somalia which is one of

our long-standing ambitions. I congratulate Jubbaland for becoming the first Somali State of the federal government to host a regional football league. This is an iconic history for the region” Somali FA president, Abdiqani Said Arab said in a statement. The president said that such regional football leagues will be held in each semiautonomous

Somali State as most of states are now in their final preparations. “The teams who win in the leagues in their respective states will gather in the capital Mogadishu and will play a final tournament. Then the team who wins in that final tournament will be recognized as the Champion of Somalia’s federal States and will get top profile awards” SFF president mentioned.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

BANADIR LIFTS 2016 SUPER CUP TROPHY

efending champions Banadir Sports Club won the 2016 edition of Somalia’s super cup match after downing their foes Jeenyo FC in the fight for the Super Cup trophy on 11th of November 2016. The match ended in 1-1 stalemate during the normal period plus the extra time and to decide a winner there were penalty shootouts and as a result Banadir Sports Club won the trophy 3-2 on pens. This was the second time in less than two weeks that the two teams fought for a high profile trophy. On October 30th, they fought in the final of General Da’ud Cup which is the send most popular sporting competition in Somalia. Jeenyo FC won the final 4-1 on pens to lift the 2016 edition of General Da’ud Cup. However, the Super Cup trophy marked the second major victory for Banadir Sports Club in 2016, as they were already the national league winners unbeaten.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

BANADIR SPORTS CLUB WINS 2015-2016 NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE UNBEATEN

efending champions Banadir Sports Club who rewrote history in 2013-2014 when they won the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top national football league unbeaten have once again did the same record to take the trophy unbeaten for the 2015-2016 season. Banadir who are one of the strongest football clubs in the country regained their unbeaten record once again after falling to win the league in the 2014-2015 football season. But they won the 2013-2014 season unbeaten to rewrite an age-old history. They became the only football club in Somalia who gained unbeaten record in more than half a century.

Football records in Somalia show that Gaadiidka formerly known as AUTOBAR was the first football club in Somalia who won the league

unbeaten and that was in 1956. But in recent history, it is Banadir sports club who are enjoying two national league titles unbeaten.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

COACHES AND REFEREES IN MIDDLE SHABELLE REGION AVAIL FROM TRAINING COURSES

ootball referees and coaches in the Middle Shabelle region had availed from training courses which were held in the city of Jowhar some 90 kilometers north of the capital Mogadishu. The courses continued from 1-4 June 2016 and were organized under the regional football development scheme through the 3rd phase of the [Spread the Football] initiative which was announced by the SFF president, Abdiqani Said Arab. The development courses brought together some 30 participants from

different cities, towns and villages in the region. They are 20 referees and 10 coaches. Chairman of Middle Shabelle regional football association, Sharif Nur Mahmoud, thanked Somali Football Federation for its commitment to ensuring that development courses are organized in the region only three months after a new football committee was elected in the region, an election that for the first time took place without interference from the government.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

Somali Football Federation senior vice president, Ali Abdi Mohamed, who delivered a short address at the conclusion ceremony of the training courses, said it was the duty of his federation to ensure that football reaches every single tiny village in the country. He commended the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s governmental authorities for accepting an election which brought in new football administrators without governmental interference, adding that it was impossible for Somali FA to develop football where football officials

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

are appointed and fired by governmental authorities. The deputy governor of the Middle Shabelle region, Ahmed Meyre Makaraan, a football-mad politician who has been actively working with Somali FA over the years, said that it was an honor for his region to host the 3rd phase of regional development courses, pledging that his regional administration will develop very healthy cooperative relations with Somali Football Federation. Somali FA senior vice president, Ali Abdi Mohamed invited the regional deputy governor, Ahmed Meyre Makaraan, to conclude the courses.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

JUBBALAND FOOTBALL BENEFIT FROM SFF’S SPREAD THE FOOTBALL INITIATIVE

ootball in the semiautonomous Somali State of Jubbaland, south end of the country, had a boost of football knowledge after benefitting from coaching, refereeing and football administration courses conducted in the key port city of Kismayo under Somali Football Federation’s [Spread the football] initiative. The three development courses were hosted by the Jubbaland football association and were held from 31st of March to 4th of April 2016. The program brought together a total of 50 football volunteers including 20 referees, 17 coaches and 13 football administrators who came from the three regions in the Jubbaland State. The development initiative which was announced by the Somali Football Federation president,

Abdiqani Said Arab, in his post election address on 31st of August 2014 was mainly intended to prepare the country for its first ever regional football leagues which had so far been played in some parts of the country. “Human resource development is the most important thing for us. The main objective for the organization of the regional development courses is to educate the people who would manage football in all regional states of the federal government to give them the capacity and the knowledge to implement the regional leagues under the auspice of SFF” president Abdiqani Said Arab noted. The president said this was the second huge development project to be carried out in the country in less than two months adding that such projects will be implemented throughout the country despite the less financial capability the

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

federation is facing with no local sponsorships at all. “Although we have no local sponsors and our government has not the financial capacity to assist us, we are determined to spreading football knowledge across the country, because our commitment is more than enough” said SFF president Abdiqani Said Arab, who thanked FIFA for being the sole financer of his federation since the country descended into chaos more than 26 years ago.The chairman of the Jubbaland state football association, Ahmed Farah Taqal, thanked the Somali Football Federation authorities for their commitment to promote football throughout the country. “With the help of Somali Football federation, we intend to continue development courses in the region” he said. Somali Football Federation senior

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

vice president, Ali Abdi Mohamed, who addressed at the closing ceremony of the development courses, said that SFF was giving much priority to increasing the quality and quantity of human resources. “In February, we did such program in Puntland state and today we are here and tomorrow we will be in other states” said SFF senior vice president Ali Abdi Mohamed adding that his federation was very pleased with the cooperation from the regional state’s ministry for public affairs. Jubbaland state minister for public affairs Moalim Mohamed Ibrahim added that football was playing a big role in the restoration of the country’s lost name and publicity. “Football is very important for the people of Somalia because it brings about peace and generates public integration and development. The country got destroyed, but now after so many years, we have high hopes that we are almost back” the minister said before inviting Jubaland’s vice president Abdullahi Sheik Ismail to announce the closure of the development program.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

FIFA MA REFEREEING COURSE FOR SOMALIA GETS TO CONCLUSION

he world Football’s governing body [FIFA], in collaboration with Somali Football Federation, conducted a 5-day FIFA MA refereeing course for Somalia in the capital Mogadishu which continued from 9-13 July 2016. The course was attended by 30 referees including international and national levels. FIFA technical instructor, Felix Tangawarima [Zimbabwe] and FIFA fitness instructor, Mohamed Hussein Ali [Djibouti] were teaching at the course. FIFA fitness instructor, Mohamed Hussein Ali, who addressed at the closing ceremony, said he admired at the fitness and performance of the Somali referees. “For me it is the first time to arrive in Somalia,

but I started helping and working with Somali referees back in 2010, when the Somali FA had organized its courses in Djibouti and now I see there is a big difference” the FIFA instructor said. “Six years ago, we had more than 50% of Somali referees failing the fitness test, but now the situation is very different and I am happy that more than 96% has passed the new fitness test. This is the result of the hard work done by local fitness instructor Abdi Abdulle Ahmed and the entire referees committee” the instructor mentioned in his address. FIFA technical instructor, Felix Tangawarima, started his speech with thanking the media in general and in particularly FIFA and CAF media for helping the promotion of

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

football throughout the world. The instructor added he was very grateful to Somali football federation and the government of Somalia for the high profile hospitality he and his colleague received since coming to Somalia. “Before I came here I was always told about Somalia and about Somali referees except some I knew from other international courses, but now I can tell people about Somalia and about Somali referees. For me that is important experience” Mr. Felix Tangawarima, said in his address. Mr. President I want to tell you that I am very impressed with the level of your referees. Throughout the week we took them through very

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

difficult situations, hardworking classes and hard working fitness sessions and they were good in every circumstance” he said. “I taught and tested them against the amended laws of the game and I am happy that their level of understanding was very high. They really demonstrated their ability to do what they are required to. They are very young, very intelligent and even very committed referees” he continued to say. “Mr. President your referees are very different from those I saw in many other African countries I visited and it is very humbling for

me to be here. In FIFA we say, if you do your part, we also do our part, so we leave you to do your part as you are doing now and FIFA is committed to helping you” the instructor said to conclude his address. Somali Football Federation president, Abdiqani Said Arab, who finally addressed at the conclusion ceremony, commended FIFA for its efforts to enhance the level of education of referees across the world and in particularly those in Somalia. He praised the FIFA instructors for paying extra efforts to educate Somali referees. “I thank FIFA instructors for doing much

work than they were supposed to. On behalf of Somali football family, I would like to thank the international instructors for the extra efforts they did” SFF president, Abdiqani Said Arab, said. He thanked local instructors for assisting FIFA instructors throughout the course.”I am very delighted to get a very positive message from the FIFA instructors. This shows that our local instructors had done well, because they are the ones who trained and educated such very young and talented referees from the very beginning of their career” the president noted.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

FOOTBALL ADMINISTRATORS, COACHES AND REFEREES IN PUNTLAND STATE TRAINED

s part of its regional football development scheme, the Somali Football Federation, successfully implemented administration, coaching and refereeing courses in the Puntland State of Somalia. A total of 85 football volunteers were trained during the development courses which were held in the provincial capital of Garowe between 6-11 February 2016 The courses which were conducted under SFF’s regional football development scheme through the [Spread the football] initiative, had gathered 40 referees, 30 coaches and 15 football administrators from regions in the semiautonomous Somali State of Puntland.

The program was meant to help the federal states in the country prepare for the country’s first ever regional football leagues. The inauguration of the regional leagues was one of several development initiatives announced by the Somali Football Federation president, Abdiqani Said Arab, during his post election address on 31st of August 2014. Secretary General of the Puntland Branch Football Association, Abdulkader Ali Dahir, who first addressed at the closing ceremony, said that Somali FA had spent a plenty of efforts, time and money to organize the development courses.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

Somali Football Federation executive committee member Osman Jama Diraa, added that according to the development strategy announced by SFF president, Abdiqani Said Arab, Somali FA was committed to spread the football knowledge throughout the country and the courses implemented in the Puntland state were part of that long-term strategy to promote football nationwide. SFF education officer, Ali Mohamed Ahmed, said that education is the necessary basement for the development of the game. “FIFA and CAF give much priority to the development of education because the human resource is

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

the main drive for the football promotion and as SFF, we decided to develop our people, because when we have educated people, we can promote the game” he said. Somali NOC executive committee member, Fadumo Ali Nur, said she was very happy to witness the implementation of this huge development program adding that Somali Football Federation was praiseworthy for the organization of the development courses. She urged the federal government of Somali and the regional State to invest the country’s sport which is now recovering from years of conflicts. Somali FA vice president, Abdullahi Sheik Nur, said it was a great pleasure for his federation to inaugurate the development courses in the Puntland State. “Now we have an interim regional football association here in Puntland which will be in office for one year before we hold the first local football election in the Puntland state” the SFF vice president noted.

Somali FA senior vice president, Ali Abdi Mohamed, said it was the first time that the SFF organizes development courses for 85 people at the same time and in the same place. He said it was SFF’s commitment to expand football into every tinny village in the country, adding that the courses were part of his federation’s [Spread the football] initiative. He praised the minister of sport of the Puntland State for developing a very healthy relationship and cooperation with the Somali Football Federation. The minister for youth and sport of the Puntland State of Somalia Mr. Abdirahman Sheik Ahmed said that having qualified referees, coaches and football administrators had meant a lot to his region. “I take this opportunity to say a big thanks to Somali Football Federation for making our dreams true” the minister said before inviting the microphone to the president of the Puntland State of Somalia Abdiweli Mohamed Ali to close the week-long development

program. The president said that it was a very great pleasure for him to attend such high profile football gathering. “While I was young, football coaches and referees were old men, but today I am very happy to see these young age football coaches and referees. It is really an amazing experience for me and it is a very good initiative to have these young faces in action” Mr. Ali said in his closing remarks. “My particular thanks are due to Somali Football Federation for educating people and creating this great opportunity for the youths. Football is development. It generates progress and public integration. Imagine these 85 young people from different regions didn’t know each other before, but now they are friends and they believe they are from the same family which is the football family” the president of the Puntland State of Somalia Abdiweli Mohamed Ali, said before announcing the conclusion of the development courses.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

SFF DONATES 120 BEDS AND FOOTBALL EQUIPMENT TO A CHILDREN´S REHABILITATION CENTRE

s part of its humanitarian program, the Somali Football Federation donated 120 beds and football equipment to the country’s main children’s rehabilitation centre through the Somali correction troops who runs the centre. The centre holds hundreds of children and teenagers including some from poorer families, children whose parents died in Somalia conflicts and street boys. CECAFA vice president and the president of Somali Football Federation [SFF], Abdiqani Said Arab accompanied by his senior vice president, Ali Abdi Mohamed handed over the donation to the Somali deputy Prime Minister, Mohamed Omar Arte and the chief of Somalia’s correction troops [former FIFA referee] Major General Bashir Mohamed Jama. During the presentation ceremony of the equipment on Sunday 24th January 2016, the Somali FA president Abdiqani Said Arab noted “We visited the centre several weeks ago and we learned that these children didn’t enough beds and mattresses, so we decided to provide them with beds and football equipment so that they can life in a different life”. “This is part of our humanitarian program and we will continue helping our people as much as we can. Our country experienced lawlessness and humanitarian problems which affected so many people in the country and that is why the SFF decided to establish its own humanitarian program

in 2015” the president noted during his address at the donation presentation ceremony.The chief of Somali correction troops [former FIFA referee] Major General Bashir Mohamed Jama, lauded for the SFF’s donation and the offer to build a football facility at the rehabilitation centre. On his side, the deputy Prime Minister, Mohamed Omar Arte, commended the Somali Football

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

Federation for its contribution to both the youth rehabilitation centre and football development across the country. He urged other organizations and business communities to follow Somali Football Federation’s footsteps, adding that a joint cooperation will help the country recover from decades of setbacks caused by the long-running civil wars and lawlessness.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

SOMALI FA CONDUCTS CLUB MANAGEMENT WORKSHOP FOR ELITE NATIONAL LEAGUE SIDES

omali football federation [SFF] held a club management workshop for the ten teams of the country’s top national football league. The workshop brought together club chairmen, coaches and captains from the 10 teams in Somalia’s elite national football league and was concluded in the capital Mogadishu on 19th of November 2016. Somali Football Federation president, Abdiqani Said Arab, who addressed at the conclusion ceremony of the workshop, said that the organization of club

management events has more priorities for the Somali FA. “It is very important for us that our club managers avail from such workshop, because it helps them acquire an adequate administrative knowledge which will lead their clubs to be more successful” SFF president Abdiqani Said Arab, told during the closing ceremony. “Now we have club chairmen, coaches and captains in this workshop, but our plan is to organize a broader seminar which will gather all officials including vice chairmen and club secretaries. The federation will organize such

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

courses every year as we find them more important for the promotion beautiful game in our country” the president noted. Heegan Sports Club coach, Felix Nwosu and Mogadishu United FC chairman, Mohamed Hassan, who addressed at the conclusion ceremony on behalf of the participants both, said that the workshop was more beneficial for them adding that they have learned very important lessons which will help them to successfully manage their day-to-day duties at their clubs.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

SOMALI FA DONATES OFFICE EQUIPMENT TO PUNTLAND STATE BRANCH

untland State minister for youth and Sports Mr. Abdirahman Sheik Ahmed 4th from right opens the new compound with Somali FA seniro vice president Ali Abdi Mohamed 5th from right. Somali Football Federation [SFF] had donated complete office equipment to the football association in the Somali regional State of Puntland, which moved to a new office. The renovation of the compound comes weeks after the newlyrecruited secretariat members for the office took part in a sports administration course held in the capital Mogadishu as part of the regional development strategy announced earlier by the by

the Somali Football Federation president, Abdiqani Said Arab. Government officials and SFF members attended a colorful ceremony which marked on the launching of the refurbished office on 5th of February 2016. Director General of the Puntland ministry for youth and sport, Ahmed Abdalla, who first addressed at the ceremony, said that the fullyequipped compound implemented by the Somali Football Federation will help speed up the development of the game in the state. Somali FA senior vice president, Ali Abdi Mohamed, commended Puntland’s minster for youth and sport for his commitment to the beautiful game. “Mr. Abdirahman

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

is the first ever football-loving minister in this state and with his cooperation we hope that we can develop more” SFF senior vice president, noted before welcoming Mr. Abdirahman Sheik Ahmed to the platform. On his side, the minister for youth and sport of the Puntland State of Somalia Mr. Abdirahman Sheik Ahmed, said that the renovation and the enlargement of the office was a good step forward. “I would like to thank Somali Football Federation for making this successful attempt possible” the minister said as he inaugurated the newly-redecorated offices of the football association in the Puntland State of Somalia.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

SOMALIA BEGINS USE OF REFEREE COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY

omalia has made a progress as soccer referees have been seen using the wireless referee communication system at the start of the 2016-2017 Somali National football league. This is the first time in history, that the new technology has been exercised during football competitions in the country. Football fans in Somalia see the arrival of the new technology in the country as a huge advancement which will help ‘sweeten’ soccer competitions in Somalia. A 19 year-old Fardowsa Ahmed, who is one of the football-mad girls in Somalia said “I always asked myself when Somalia will have such wireless communication system which is more helpful for the referees. Now I am very happy because I see the system being practiced during the national league and I hope Somalia will soon make other key developments” said the teen when was reached for comment. The African football’s governing body [CAF] donated two sets of the sophisticated referee communication system to Somali Football Federation, whose president Abdiqani Said Arab was fully jubilant at the new approach in his country. The Somalia FA Boss, Abdiqani Said Arab, commended the Confederation of African Football for making possible one of his longexisted dreams. “I take this opportunity to thank CAF

for donating us this sophisticated equipment which is very important for the betterment of our competitions” Somali Football Federation president, Abdiqani Said Arab” said in a press statement. Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

SOMALIA BENEFITS FROM ITS FIRST EVER FIFA YOUTH REFEREEING COURSE

n 9th of November 2016, Somali Football federation concluded the first FIFA youth refereeing course to be conducted in the country under the auspice of the world football’s governing association [FIFA]. Somali football federation senior vice president, Ali Abdi Mohamed, who addressed at the closing ceremony of the course, said that the need for education is always there. “Education and development are two things which are always important for the humans, because we are people and people must always think about their development. Somali football federation is always prioritizing education and progress and that is why development courses are held by the federation” Mr. Mohamed said before handing over the microphone to SFF president, Abdiqani Said Arab. The president thanked FIFA for

helping Somalia football to develop despite the difficult situation in the country. “Thanks to FIFA for always giving particular considerations to our requests for development, FIFA was always and is still investing Somalia football in many ways” Somali Football Federation [SFF] president, Abdiqani Said Arab noted during his closing speech. “As shown in our activity plans, local competitions in the country will increase by 2017. Like so, SFF is planning to increase the quality and quantity of football referees in Somalia, because to organize more competitions, we have to increase the number of our referees first and that is why we have been organizing more local and international level refereeing courses for the past two years” the president explained. “In our football history it has never happened that two FIFA-level refereeing courses were held in Somalia within a year and we are planning to increase this again with the help from FIFA, because

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

refereeing is a very important sector in the football industry and we are committed to developing that important sector” president Abdiqani Said Arab noted. The president commended local Somali instructors for producing young and talented referees. “With this course, Somalia has realized two major dreams. The first one is to organize such high profile course for our young referees and the second major approach is that a Somali instructor, Ali Mohamed Ahmed, has for the first time been given the go ahead to conduct a FIFA course” SFF president Abdiqani Said Arab, said in his address. The head instructcor was assisted by local fitness instructor and former FIFA referee Abdi Abdulle Ahmed. The course brought together some 30 young age referees from across the country and they were all awarded with their certificates except two referees who failed in fitness test.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

SOMALIA COME OF AGE, AS OUR INSTRUCTORS CONDUCT CAF (C) LICENSE COURSE

or the first time in history, Somalia has been able to successfully hold its CAF “C” license coaching course, after qualified Somali instructors conducted the course at home, while previously the African football governing body [CAF] used to send foreign instructors to teach Somali coaches. A total of 24 coaches were awarded with the CAF “C” License certificates after successfully passing both practical and theory sessions. Somali instructors: Awil Ismail Mohamed and Mohamed

Abdulle Farayare were teaching at the course which was held at the SFF headquarters in the capital Mogadishu from 20-25 December 2015.

ceremony for the course, said that his country has now come of age and he was hopeful that the number of qualified Somali instructors will increase in the years to come.

Both Somali instructors gained their CAF “A” Licenses in 2014 and were given the go ahead as CAF instructors by the African Football governing body [CAF] and with their promotion to this level, Somalia seems to have grown a bit.

“Now we have two Somali experts who have successfully done this CAF level coaching course—We are now hopeful that Somalia will soon have its FIFA level instructors and I am sure that will happen because Somalia’s knowledge and experience in football is growing” said the senior vice president who congratulated the graduated coaches on their gaining of the CAF

Somali Football Federation senior vice president, Ali Abdi Mohamed, who addressed at the closing

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

“C” license certificates. However, below are the list coaches who were awarded with the CAF “C” license certificates. 1.Alawi Mohamed Hassan 2.Ali Mohamed Absuge 3.Salad Mohamed Mohamoud 4.Hamdi Wardheere Mohamed 5.Mustafa Hassan Omar

6.Abdirahman Mohamed Gelle 7.Mohiyadin Ahmed Osobow 8.Mohamed Bashir Ali 9.Nur Mohamed Amiin 10.Ali Mohamed Hilowle 11.IbraahimCusmaanAadan 12.Baasir Mohamed Nur 13.Abdirashid Dahir Siyaad 14.Shirwa Abdullahi Ahmed 15.Abdirahman Hussein Ghedi

16.Ali Hussein Mohamed 17.Ahmed Abdi Ali 18.Siyaad Ali Mohamed 19.Omar Osman Nur 20.Mohamed Abdi Jeele (Katimba) 21.Ali Aden Elmi 22.Khadar Diriye Naaleeye 23.Da’ud Abshir Faanka 24.Hassan Ali Rooble

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

THE 4TH PHASE OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT SCHEME CONCLUDES IN GALMUDUG STATE

omali Football Federation successfully completed the 4th phase of its regional football development scheme which was carried out under SFF’s “spread the football” initiative in the semiautonomous Somali state of Galmudug from 13-17 July 2016. This was one of the major football development activities in the year and was organized in the city of Galkayo, some 750 kilometers north of the capital. Some 62 football volunteers were trained different footballrelated skills under the regional development scheme. They were 30 referees, 20 coaches and 12 football administrators from several cities, towns and villages

across the semiautonomous state of Galmudug. According to the strategic plans announced by Somali FA president Abdiqani Said Arab, in his post election address in August 2014, the regional development scheme is intended to spread football knowledge and experience throughout the country and it is part of the [Spread the football program]. Somali Football Federation education officer, Ali Mohamed Ahmed who addressed at the conclusion ceremony for the development courses first commended Galmudug state for hosting the development program. He extolled the Mayor of Galkayo,

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

Mr. Hersi Yusuf Barre for providing local transport, security and high profile medical service during the courses. Thanks to Galkayo main hospital for providing ambulances and paramedics during fitness training sessions at Abdullahi Isse Sports Complex. “The main point we organize such educational courses is to give every single region the capacity to be able to organize their own courses successfully in the future. Another importance is also to help semiautonomous states to organize professional regional level football leagues” Mr. Ahmed noted during his address. Former Somali police chief and former Galmudug State president,

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

Major General Abdi Hassan Awale, praised Somali Football Federation, for the good job they are doing for the whole country. “In this world, football is all about business, development and civilization. The progress every community makes depends on the level of their football and in Somalia we want to develop the game so that the country can progress well enough” said former Somali Police chief Major General Abdi Hassan Awale. Galmudug State minister for youth and sport, Warsame Mohamed Hassan, said that the organization of the development courses in his State had marked a moment of great pleasure, adding that with the conclusion of the courses he was very hopeful that football in his regional state will develop more. “To reach a very high level in football needs much investment. If you invest football as much as wanted, then you can reach the level of your ambition. I urge the federal government of Somalia and business companies to spend much money in football so that we can approach the higher level we want” the minister said before announcing end to the development courses.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

YOUTH COACHES IN SOMALIA TRAINED AT A FIFA COURSE Somali Football Federation in collaboration with FIFA successfully organized a five-day high level training course for youth coaches in the country. The course which was held in the capital Mogadishu from 2-6 October 2016 gathered some 27 coaches and was conducted by FIFA expert, Ulric Mathiot [Seychelles].

concentration and commitment during the course. “Youth football courses and grassroots programs are very indispensable for FIFA and that is why FIFA gives much priority to such courses. This is a new era in your football and I am hopeful that you will play a big role in developing football in your generation” the FIFA instructor told participants of the course.

On the behalf of FIFA, the instructor who addressed at the closing ceremony of the training course first thanked Somali Football Federation for the organization of the successful course. He also thanked the participants for their

Somali football federation president, Abdiqani Said Arab, started his closing speech with sending a big thank you to FIFA. “On behalf of the entire football family in Somalia, I would like to thank FIFA for the quick acceptance to

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

our request when we asked them to hold this course for us. FIFA always gives us a particular consideration knowing the situation under which we work” SFF president said. He then went on to say “I also want to thank our brother Ulric Mathiot who has a remarkable history in Somalia. Since Somalia descended into violence and lawlessness in 1991, Ulric Mathiot became the first coaching expert who accepted to come to Somalia to pass his knowledge to our coaches and that is why we have a big respect for him and he has memory in our minds” the Somali FA president explained.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

The president spoke about the main reason for the organization of the youth coaching course. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We organized this course for you simply to give you the knowledge and the capacity to build football from the bottom by training young boys who have no idea for football. If you do the kind of job we want to you to do, I on the behalf of Somali FA promise in front of you that you will get more other courses to help you promote your coaching knowledge and experienceâ&#x20AC;? the president told participants before announcing the closure of the course.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

A SUCCESSFUL FIFA GRASSROOTS PROGRAM IN SOMALIA

omali Football Federation in collaboration with the world football’s governing body [FIFA] has on 14th of December 2016 concluded a 5-day grassroots program which was the second of its kind to be held in the country. The course was attended by 21 coaches who were taught lessons about how to educate children through football and make them love the game. The course was conducted by FIFA instructor, Ulric Mathiot [Seychelles] assisted by local instructors. In his address at the closing ceremony on, Mr. Mathiot said he witnessed a lot of football progress in Somalia. From my experience when I first arrived in Somalia in 2013, I can see that Somalia football is going up. I would like to acknowledge that Somalia is doing a greater work to develop its football and I am happy with that great

approach” the FIFA instructor said. He continued to say “I saw a team work and that is good for football development. I always see people working together and togetherness we reach our goals. Course participants were very determined and in the end I am very happy that they know what exactly grassroots is and they are now ready to pass their knowledge to Somali children”. “Somalia is doing a lot of progress and on behalf of FIFA I would like to announce that FIFA is committed to developing football in your country” he said adding he was very pleased to be back in Somalia for the second time in three months. The FIFA instructor said he was fully pleased with how the media in Somalia are committed to playing their role in the promotion of the game in their country. “I did conduct such courses in many countries and

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

I have never seen such big crowd of media representatives. I would like to thank the media for their role” he noted. Somali football federation senior vice president, Ali Abdi Mohamed urged course participants to exercise what they learned from the course and try to get so many children into football as much as they can. “It is easier for people to learn everything while they are very young than after they have grown up and that is why the grassroots program is very useful for football development” the senior vice president said before handing over the microphone to Somali FA president, Abdiqani Said Arab. The president first thanked FIFA for giving Somalia the fourth opportunity in 2016 during which four different football development courses were held in the country.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

He then went on to thank the instructor, Ulric Mathiot for always accepting to come to Somalia when suggested to him by FIFA. “You always prefer to come to Somalia, because we know you love our people and I want to confirm to you that Somali people love you as much as you love them. We still need you and we are hopeful that you will be with us in the months and the years to come” SFF president told the FIFA instructor during his closing address. “Grassroots program is where the football development is started from. Without knowledge it will be very difficult to develop football and to realize our dreams we always prioritize to increase our football knowledge” the president said adding that Somali FA was well-satisfied with the courses that Mr. Ulric Mathiot conducted in Somalia so far. The president said that Grassroots courses at both FIFA and national levels will continue in the country. Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

SFF COMMUNICATION OFFICER DELIVERS A LECTURE AT CAF MEDIA SEMINAR IN CAMEROON

omali Football Federation director of communication, Shafi’i Mohyaddin Abokar, delivered a 40-minute lecture at the CAF capacity building seminar for FAs media officers held in Cameroon from 18-20 December 2016. In his lecture he spoke about the growth of sports media sector in Somalia and a number of key other issues relating to the role the media can play in the promotion of football in the whole of Africa. “First I would like to thank CAF for giving me this high profile opportunity to deliver this lecture to the media officers attending

in the seminar. This is a golden moment for me to exercise my experience and the knowledge I gained from a previous CAF seminar and I will share them with you (Media officers)” Somali Football Federation director of communication, Shafi’i Mohyaddin Abokar, told the friendly participants. Before going down to it, Mr. Abokar first spoke about the growth of sports journalism in Somalia and how the sports media sector in the country has been progressing in the past several years during which a number of media houses including TVs and radio stations which only

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

broadcast sports news, comments and interviews were established in Somalia. He praised the spots media in Somalia for playing a big role in the promotion of the game in the country adding that most of foreign players in Somalia came through the media after contacting sports journalists who put them in touch with football clubs in Somalia where they finally secured agreements which led to their arrival in the country. In his lecture, the Somali Football Federation director of communication, Shafi’i Mohyaddin

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

I encourage you (Media officers) to always develop your cooperation with FIFA and CAF media divisions; because they are the people we work with. Also make sure that you have a continued and cooperative relations with international media and as well as the media people in your respective countries. SFF Director Of Communication, Shafi’i Mohyaddin Abokar

Abokar, explained how hugely it was important for CAF Member Associations’ media officers to develop a very healthy and cooperative relations with FIFA and CAF media departments and as well as local and international media. “I encourage you (Media officers) to always develop your cooperation with FIFA and CAF media divisions; because they are the people we work with. Also make sure that you have a continued and cooperative relations with international media and as well as the media people in your respective countries. This will help your endeavors to develop the game in your countries” He told the capacity workshop participants. At the end of his lecture, the Somali Football Federation director of communication, Shafi’i Mohyaddin Abokar, was asked several questions by the media officers in the seminar and he gave very detailed answers to all questions he was asked.

Media officers from CAF- Member associations in the seminar were very delighted with the lecture which they said was more beneficial to them and will help them make changes in their countries towards the way sports media and the FAs media officers would have to develop co-operations. A lot of media officers in the seminar have given their views about the lecture and here are quotes from some of them: Bakay B Baldeh (Gambia) “Shafi’i your lecture was very good and it helped us a great deal, it also helped us to enhance our knowledge of media offficer’s job and how you as a person have been a media officer for Somalia and worked also in Djibouti. Specially the skills and tactics that you used in order to be able to engage and encourage the general public in Somalia to follow football and also your efforts in making sure that the sports press reports 90% percent of football activities in Somalia. Your

presentation has helped us more and it will encourage us to use the skills that you showed us during your lecture. Thank you” Bonnie Mugabe (Rwanda): Shafi’i I thank you for the well-built lecture you have delivered. It carried a lot of important examples which are more beneficial, thank you for your lecture” Otieno Barry (Kenya): “I know one of the players who appeared in the pictures in your presentation, it is true that media in Somalia are having a big role in your football, because I knew when that player in the picture was traveling to Somalia. He told me that a journalist was taking him to Somalia to play for a football team in Somalia. I first though he was going to join militants, but I finally found out he joined a football team in Somalia. I really admired your lecture and it gives us a lot of advantage on how to use the media to help develop football.” Wondimkun Alayou (Ethiopia) “I really enjoyed your lecture Shafi’i and to me it gave me more knowledge and experience. I am sure I benefitted a lot from your lecture. It was a good example of how a media officer can handle his job and the skills that a football media officer must use to make a better approach”

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

SFF DELEGATION ATTENDS FIFA FORWARD PROGRAM WORKSHOP IN DJIBOUTI

high profile delegation led by the presient of Somali Football Federation, Abdiqani Said Arab attended a FIFA forward program workshop held in the neighboruidng cuntry of Djibouti. The FIFA forward program workshop which continued from 17-18 December 2016 was attended by Somali Football Federation president, Abdiqani Said Arab,

General Secretary Hassan Mohamed Mahmoud and finance manager, Fahmo Kulle Ali along with their counterparts from CECCA Member Associations. The workshop was aimed at briefing Member Associations on the most important principles in the FIFA Forward program and how to manage the funds they receive from FIFA in the most appropriate way

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

to avoid from financial misconducts which can result in FIFA cutting their funds as occurred in many FIFAmember associations. FIFAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s financial assistance to its member associations to accelerate football development in the world has increase to 1,250,000 USD per year. This means that every federation will earn 5 million USD in every four years.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

As shown in the financial assistance plan every FIFA-member association gets access to 500,000 USD per year to cover running costs and other financial needs and as well as 750,000 USD for football projects including construction of soccer facilities and other complexes as planned by member FAs and approved by FIFA. This was the first such event organized by FIFA for CECAFA region and hosted in Djibouti. President of Djiboutian Football Federation, Souleiman Hassan Waberi said that it was an honor for his country and his federation that FIFA forward program workshop for the region took place in his country.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

SOMALI CHILDREN ENJOY IN A FOOTBALL FESTIVAL About 250 boys between 6-12 years took part in a football festival held at the National technical centre on 13th of December 2016. The children made a beautiful exhibition in the festival during the FIFA Grassroots course for Somalia. During the festival coaches who were trained at the FIFA course had

exercised what they learned and were practically examined to see how they were capable of making the children love football. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the first day of the course, these coaches had no idea of what grassroots is, but now I can see that they benefitted more from the

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

course and they did well to pass their knowledge to the kidsâ&#x20AC;? FIFA instructor, Ulric Mathiot told the media at the end of the festival.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

SOMALI FA COMMUNICATION DIRECTOR GAINS CAF PRAISE

omali Football Federation director of communication, Shafi’i Mohyaddin Abokar has once again gained a full praise from the African Football Governing body [CAF] and was termed as the best football federation media officer in the continent. Speaking at the capacity building seminar for media officers from CAF member associations held 18-20 December 2016 at CAF centre of excellence in Cameroon, CAF executive committee member and the president of CAF media committee, Mr. Anjorin Moucharafou said that CAF was fully appreciating the work by Somali FA communication officer.

“Today I want to talk about someone that I don’t know personally, but I like the way he handles his job. I am not sure if he is here, but he is the media officer of Somalia Football Federation. He does a good job and CAF is happy with that” CAF executive committee member and the president of CAF media committee, Mr. Anjorin Moucharafou said. “Now you have been appointed to work at the TOTAL Africa Cup of Nations as a media officer and I am sure that the good job you are doing will one day take you to a higher position at the continental level, because at CAF we admire

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

your dedication” CAF executive committee member and the president of CAF media committee, Mr. Anjorin Moucharafou told the Somali FA communication director when he saw the Somali FA official sitting in front of him. “I want every media officer in Africa to work harder as Shafi’i is doing in his country and as well as in Djibouti because CAF wants every media officer to be a good example” Mr. Moucharafou said. On his side, CAF media director, Junior Binyam, commended the Somali FA director of communication, Shafi’i Mohyaddin Abokar, as the most active media

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

I want every media officer in Africa to work harder as Shafi’i is doing in his country and as well as in Djibouti because CAF wants every media officer to be a good example. President of CAF Media Committee, Anjorin Moucharafou

officer in Africa. “Shafi’i has been doing a tremendous job that made CAF to be well-aware of the football development in Somalia more than any other country and that is because of his job” Mr. Binyam said.

been doing. CAF wouldn’t know how well the president was managing football development in Somalia but it was his media officer, Shafi’i who always reported to CAF about the progress in Somalia” Mr. Binyam said in his address.

“As you know CAF awarded Somali FA president Abdiqani Said Arab in January 2016 as the best African football leader of the year and that is be because of what Shafi’i has

He said that some football federations in African even don’t have media officers adding that it was very important for FAs to employ full time media officers.

“From 2017, it will be mandatory that every football federation in Africa must have a media officer” Mr. Binyam said adding that media officers are important machines for the federations and must attend all executive committee meetings. “They are not decision makers, but they should know everything within the federation as they speak on behalf of the federations” he said.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

SOMALI SPORTS MINISTER LAUDS FOR FOOTBALL GROWTH IN THE COUNTRY

Somali Minister for youth and Sport, Mr. Mohamed Abdullahi Hassan [centre], SFF president, Abdiqani Said Arab 2nd from left, SFF senior Vice president, Ali Abdi Mohamed 2nd from right and SFF Secretary General Hassan Mohamed Mohamud [Right] walk inside the University Stadium on 15 August 2015.

omalia has put violence behind and there is a clear expectation in the country that football is fully recovering from decades of conflicts and unrest. The Somali minister for youth and sport, Mohamed Abdullahi Hassan, commended the growth of football and soccer-related development projects in the country. “In recent years, we have witnessed huge development projects implemented by the Somali Football Federation, and I take this opportunity to thank SFF for knowing their responsibilities and as well as FIFA for its continued assistance to the country,” the

minister said. The minister made the comments, during an official working visit to the construction site of the Somali University Stadium at the invitation from Somali Football federation President, Abdiqani Said Arab, on 15th of August 2015. “I believe that Somali Football Federation has played a big role in football promotion in the country. The SFF had done its utmost to make sure that Somalia enjoys international stander facilities” the minister explained during a press conference at the facility which was under construction. “Football is life; I am saying this, because it brings together some

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

key things which are basic for the human life such as: generating income, public integration, development and health” the minister explained. He said that having such world stander facilities will help Somali Football Federation produce more and more young talented footballers. Somali Football Federation president, Abdiqani Said Arab, accompanied by his deputy Ali Abdi Mohamed and secretary General, Hassan Mohamed Mohamud, said that the main purpose for the minister’s invitation to the site was to update him on the ongoing development projects.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

SPECIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM FOR BLIND PEOPLE LAUNCHED

omali Football Federation (SFF) launched a special humanitarian program which is aimed at helping the blind people in the country. The iconic program started with a football match during which gate collections were made to raise funds as part of the plans to assists the blind people in the country. The Somali Football Federation also provided the Somali Blind people’s association with symbol canes and this was part of the SFF’s humanitarian program for the disabled people within the community. The president of Somali Football Federation, Abdiqani Said Arab, said that the fundraising and other support programs will continue.

“Every year during the country’s Nation Link Telecom Championship, the gate collections from the two most-watched matches will be donated to the Somali blind people’s association” Somali Football federation president, Abdiqani Said Arab, said. “We must show the disabled people that they were not forgotten and they should have the right to live in better lives and get what other people are receiving” said the president who urged local business companies and the entire people of Somalia to generously help the people with disabilities. At the launch of the humanitarian program, Somali Football Federation organized a football match during which a fundraising was made for the blinds. The match was competed by two of

the strongest clubs in the National league, Banadir Sports Club and Heegan FC. The match ended in 2-2 draw, but Banadir Sports Club won the trophy by 4-3 in penalties. It was held on October 14, 2015. The chairman of Somali Blind People’s Association, Bashir Mohamed Jimaale, who talked to the media after the launch of the special assistance program, thanked Somali FA authorities for their understanding to help the blinds. “The gate collections made for us today will help us a lot. We are also very grateful to the Somali Football Federation for providing us with symbol canes. This is a very huge moral boost for us” said Bashir Mohamed Jimaale, chairman of Somali Blind People’s Association.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

CECAFA ACCLAIMS SOMALI FA BOSS FOR WINNING LEADER OF THE YEAR AWARD

he Council of East and Central Africa Football Association (CECAFA) felicitated its vice president and Somali FA boss, Abdiqani Said Arab for his winning of the African Football leader of the year award for 2015. In a letter he wrote to president Abdiqani Said Arab, CECAFA Secretary General Nicholas Musonye, [Kenya] said “CECAFA takes this opportunity to congratulate our Vice Chairman and Chairman of Somalia FA Abdiqani Arab Said for being nominated African football leader of the year” “We take pride in this because this is one of our members who has committed himself to the development of football in his country and in the zone. Despite the numerous challenges in his country, Abdiqani has done his best when he was the Secretary General before he was elected chairman. CECAFA nominated him as vice chairman just three days before he won the prestigious African football leader of the year award” the congratulatory letter noted. CECAFA Secretary General Nicholas Musonye said that this honor [leader of the year award] will inspire the people of Somalia to embrace peace and use the power of football to promote harmony in their country. “We thank CAF for recognizing hard-working people” explained Mr. Nicholas Musonye, himself a key driving figure of the East and Central Africa Football.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

CECAFA ELECTS NEW EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, SFF BOSS COMES IN FOR A 5TH TERM

resident of Sudan Football Association, Dr. Mutasim Gafaar, has been elected the new president of the council of east and central Africa football associations [CECAFA] during the regional Africa football body’s election in Addis Ababa on 20th of November 2015. The new president pocketed six votes out of the ten votes casted at the election beating his closest contender, Lawrence Mulindwa from Uganda who got three votes. Vincent Nzamwita [Rwanda] got only one vote possibly that of his country, while the fourth would be challenger, Junedin Basha [Ethiopia] withdrew from the fight for CECAFA presidency in the last minute. Former CECAFA president, Ledodegar Tenga of Tanzania welcomed the new regional Africa football body’s president and his executive committee. “Mutasim is a visionary man who is capable of leading the region to a greater development” Tenga said as he welcomed the president elected. ““I am very proud that I had given my best in the last eight years I served as CECAFA president” said Mr. Tenga adding he will always be available for advice and consultations in the future.”

hopeful that he will be more successful in his new role as CECAFA leader. He said he was not happy with the region’s performance in the 2018 FIFA world cup qualifiers. President Dr. Mutasim Gafaar, promised that during his leadership the CECAFA region will make amendments to recover from the past losses to culminate in more football progress than ever before. Four executive committee members have also been elected, while long time servicing Secretary General, Nicholas Musonye [Kenya] will continue his role as secretary General.

Tenga took over the role from the late Dennis Obua of Uganda in December 2007.

Executive committee members Executive committee members are: Abdiqani Said Arab [Somalia], Alei Ghabur Goc [South Sudan], Souleiman Hassan Waberi [Djibouti] and Habimona Aimable of Burundi.

The new CECAFA president, Dr. Mutasim Gafaar, said he was successful in Sudan and was

Somalia’s FA president, Abdiqani Said Arab, is the only man from the previous executive committee who has retained his position. He will be serving as CECAFA executive committee member for a 5th term. Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

CECAFA LAUDS FOR FOOTBALL PROGRESS IN SOMALIA

he council of East and Central Africa Football Associations [CECAFA] is very much pleased with the football progress, after the country started to put its football matches live on TV screens for the first time in history.

Congratulations again to SFF for all the timely positive things you are doing in your country. We want to see a changed Somalia and more programs for our youth in our beautiful country. CECAFA Secretary General, Nicholas Musonye

CECAFA Secretary General, Nicholas Musonye, wrote to Somali Football Federation president, Abdiqani Said Arab, to congratulate him on the successful approach in the country. “Congratulations again to SFF for all the timely positive things you are doing in your country. We want to see a changed Somalia and more programs for our youth in our beautiful country” Secretary General, Nicholas Musonye, said in his congratulatory letter to Somali FA boss. “CECAFA stands with you always in all your efforts. The LIVE coverage is the beginning of greater things in your country, congratulations again” the regional Africa football boss mentioned in his letter. The final match of the 2015 edition of the General Da’ud cup was broadcasted live on the Somali National Television and was facilitated by the privatelyowned production company [Horn Connect]. The Somali military team [Horseed] lifted the trophy after beating their Somali police-owned Heegan FC rivals by 2-1 in the final match. Tens of thousands of spectators including key government officials were watching the match.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

CECAFA OVERJOYED BY FOOTBALL DEVELOPMENT IN SOMALIA

he Council of East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA) said it has been cheered by the football growth in its member nation of Somalia. CECAFA Secretary General, Nicholas Musonye [Kenya] said that his regional Africa football governing body was keenly following the activities by the Somali Football Federation. In a letter he sent to Somali Football Federation president Abdiqani Said

Arab, CECAFA Secretary General, Nicholas Musonye, said “We are pleased that the Somali FA Annual General Meeting has noted the good progress being made by the SFF Executive committee and its standing committees”. “Indeed, for the past couple of years, Somali Football Federation has initiated many programs and as CECAFA we are proud of those new ideas being generated in our member Association” Mr. Musonye mentioned in his letter.

“We are wishing Somali Football Federation success in 2016 and we urge the people of Somalia to their faith and trust in the SFF leadership in order to gain more success. Thank you and May God bless Somalia” added the regional Africa football boss. His message followed after the Annual General Meeting held on 31st of December 2015 lauded for the progress made by the Somali Football federation through the year 2015.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

FIFA RDO OFFICIAL TERMS SOMALI FA BOSS ˙A HARDWORKING SOLDIER˙

FIFA refereeing development officer, Mr. Ahmed El Shenawi, said he sees signs of progress in Somalia, and termed the country’s FA president, Abdiqani Said Arab, as a ‘symbol’ for Somali sport in general. Mr. El Shenawi made the comment during his address at the opening ceremony of FIFA MA refereeing course for Somalia, at SYL hotel in the capital Mogadishu, on 28th of April 2015. After thanking FIFA for its commitment to developing football around the world, Mr. El Shenawi, said it was time to thank a ‘hardworking’ soldier. “This man is a symbol for Somali football and sport in general” the FIFA official said pointing at Somali Football Federation president, Abdiqani Said Arab, who sat next to him.

“I first met him in 2009, the situation in Somalia was not good and this man was fighting for Somali football, because the last FIFA refereeing course was held in Somalia 1980s and after that there was no course for Somali referees here due to lawlessness” he added. “I was so astonished because it was very difficult. He arranged the Somalia courses in Djibouti. He was very young at the time, but had a big mind, he was not president, but today I am very happy because he is the president of Somali Football federation and that man is Abdiqani Said Arab” Mr. El Shenawi, explained during his speech. Mr. El Shenawi, said that it was a good experience for him to conduct a course for Somalia in Mogadishu for the second year running, adding that Somalia has a huge place in his heart. Previous courses were

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

held in neighboring Djibouti due to insecurity in Somalia. Sending a message to the Somali people, Mr. El Shenawi said “I would like to say to you don’t worry, because you are between safe hands. This man [Abdiqani}, is looking after Somali football, so you should assist him and give him a push”. Former Somali National Olympic Committee president and NOCSOM Honorary Life president, Abdulkader Ibrahim Ga’al, praised Somali Football Federation officials for the hugely needed development programs under way in the country. He said that the construction of football facilities and the promotion of football knowledge in the sectors of refereeing, coaching and administration were fully appreciated.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

“Football was played in Somalia in 1939, that is pre-independence period and after independence football in the country began to grow, but I declare that the current level of football is more sophisticated and even more developed than what we had during the period 1960-1990 and that is because the knowledge of football has grown” said Mr. Ga’al who is now in his 80s. Somali Football federation Senior Vice president, Ali Abdi Mohamed, added that for the past 5 years, his federation has been prioritizing the enhancement of knowledge in particularly, refereeing, coaching and administration which are very important for the promotion of football. But he added that SFF spent much energy and time in the refereeing development area. He sent a big thank you to Somali referees for making a great performance in African competitions for the past several years, saying this was because of FIFA’s efforts to educate Somali soccer referees.

The president of Somali Football Federation, Abdiqani Said Arab, who delivered a short address at the launch of the FIFA MA seminar, first lead a prayer session in remembrance of former Somali FA and Somali NOC president, Farah Addo, who had spent a forceful commitment to develop African referees and spent nearly 20 years of serving as chairperson of CAF referees committee. “Coming to this event, I would like to thank FIFA for their commitment to helping Somali football continue to develop in this war-ravaged country” the president said adding that FIFA RDO officer, Ahmed El Shenawi and his colleague instructor, Hassan Mohamed Hassan, were very praiseworthy for leaving their families and friends simply to educate Somali referees. “On behalf of the entire football family in Somalia, I would like to highlight how hugely we are appreciating the commitment by our minister for youth and sport, his deputy and the rest officials at the ministry who are always beside us in all efforts regarding football promotion” the president noted,

before handing over the microphone to the deputy minister for youth and sport, Osman Aden Dhuubow. “Witnessing such a high profile course from FIFA being held in the country with FIFA officials coming to Somalia, means a lot to me. I thank FIFA for this great approach” said the deputy minister for youth and sport, while addressing at the opening ceremony of the FIFA MA refereeing course for Somalia. “The name FIFA, is very great, because people in every tiny village in the world know FIFA, because of football’s huge influence, so on behalf of Somali government, I am really very happy that FIFA arrive in Somalia and I want to thank SFF president for developing good co-operation with FIFA” the deputy minister emphasized before announcing the course was open. A total of 25 elite referees including national and international, had benefitted from the top level course which was conducted by FIFA RDO officer, Ahmed El Shenawi (Egypt) and Hassan Mohamed Hassan (Jordan).

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

FOOTBALL SWEETENS LIFE FOR SOMALI ORPHANS AT TURKISH SCHOOL

undreds of Somali orphans at Turkey’s Anatolia Boarding school have high hopes and expectations of becoming future national team members, as they marked the end of the first six months of formal football training sessions. The children aged between 9-15 years, had the opportunity to talk on their future expectations in football, when they met with Somali FA president, Abdiqani Said Arab, his deputy Ali Abdi Mohamed and other Somali FA senior officials during a working visit to the Anatolia Education Centre on 19th of August 2015. The Turkish school is hosting hundreds of Somali orphans including 230 boys whose fathers were either killed in conflicts or died normally. Somali Football Federation contributed coaches and

football equipment to the school where the orphans undergo formal training sessions outside their school periods and during holidays. The chancellor of Anatolia Educational Centre, Mr. Abdulkader Mohamed Hirabe, who welcomed the Somali FA officials to the Centre, said that their visit to the school was an enormous encouragement for the boys adding that it will also increase the boys’ football ambitions and expectations of national team representation. “These boys had always asked me when they will exhibit at Banadir Stadium, so your arrival here is an opportunity for them to talk to you about their needs in football and what they would like in the future,” Anatolia Educational Centre Chancellor, Mr. Abdulkader Mohamed Hirabe told Somali Football federation (SFF) officials

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

during the visit. SFF senior vice president, Ali Abdi Mohamed, praised the Anatolia Educational Centre management for the role they are playing in the country’s football promotion, adding that it was SFF’s main policy to include football education into the school curriculum in Somalia. The Somali Football Federation president, Abdiqani Said Arab, added that SFF was always committed to prioritizing to educate children under football for hope programs at schools in the country. “One of the main purposes of our visit to the school is to know how much eagerness these boys have for football and how many of them would like to become well known footballers in the future” the president said. All boys raised up their hands,

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

Coach Salah Farah Muhudin talks to his youngsters during a training session

when the president asked anyone who wants to be a professional footballer to raise up their hands, an indication that shows the popularity of football amongst the people of Somalia. The president was accompanied by his senior vice president, Ali Abdi Mohamed, Secretary General Hassan Mohamed Mohamud, Deputy Secretary General Ali Mohamed Ahmed, assistant Secretary General Aweys Ahmed Jimaale and executive committee members Mustaf Elmi Afrah and Osman Jama Diraa. Launched more than two years ago, the Anatolia Education Centre signed a cooperative deal with Somali Football Federation early 2015. The agreement was part of the expansion of SFFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grassroots and youth programs to schools throughout the country.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

HEEGAN ARE 2015 SOMALI CHAMPIONS

he Somali Police-owned sports club, Heegan FC, is the 20142015 champions of Somalia’s Nation Link Telecom Championship. Heegan have confirmed their league title on 1st of June 2015, when their ‘would be’ contenders, Jeenyo United lost hopes after they were handed a 2-1 defeat by Banadir Sports Club.

The 2014-2015 football league in Somalia, was more competitive than previous competitions, as league teams made harder preparations with the number of foreign football players arriving in the country increased rapidly in comparison with the 2013-2014 league which only saw Banadir Sports Club transferring four foreign players.

With that result, Heegan celebrated their league title of the country’s most populous sporting event despite still having two matches to spare from that day. The Old club finished the league with 36 points from 18 matches, while the former champions, Banadir Sports Club, finished 2nd place with 35 points. The Once strong club, Elman FC, who mostly represented Somalia in CECAFA Club championship in recent years, now finished in the 5th place with 29 points.

Most of foreign players in Somalia are from East Africa, but there are some who came from as far as Nigeria.

The Nation Link Telecom Championship, which was expanded from 8 to 10 clubs, had attracted a total of 21 foreign football professionals in the last season. Below are the names of the players, their respected countries and the teams they played for. HEEGAN FC: Samsoniyke Chukwu

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

(Nigeria), Mohamed Zubairu (Nigeria), Justus namai anene (Kenya) and Gentle Frank Harry (Nigeria) GAADIIDKA FC: Lehman Meheso Mwenza (Kenya), Nnorom Ikechukwu james (Nigeria), Gogo godfry naibia (Kenya) and Odilli Gerald okwudii (Nigeria) ELMAN FC: Elungat Martin, (Uganda), Ntaabazi Mubiru Eddie (Uganda), Mugsha Ivan (Uganda) and Ibrahim Omer wakili (Nigeria) DEKEDDA FC: Zubeir Yossuf Oduori (Kenya), Chibueze Christian Simon (Nigeria), Michael Juma (Kenya) and Okoro Mattias Ogbokiri (Nigeria) BANADIR SPORTS CLUB: Marcel Odhambo Oyugi (Kenya), Thomas Mwancu Cuihobi (Kenya), Mustapha .I. Maxwell (Nigeria) and Kinene Kafunayo Imam (Uganda). SAHAFI FC: Ambrose Mumo Kulatai (Kenya)

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

HEEGAN FC COLLECTED 2 CEREMONIAL TROPHIES IN ONE WEEK

n 2015, the Somali Police football club, Heegan FC, had collected two main ceremonial trophies within a week. On 12th of April 2015, the club celebrated for winning the 2nd solemn trophy in a few days time when they beat Savana FC by 4-1 in the one-day trophy held for the commemoration of the 55th anniversary of Somalia’s National Army. This was the second such victory for the club who in the same week won another ceremonial trophy held for the 32nd anniversary of Somalia’s national Television (SN TV) which has been a partner with Somali FA and gave much time to cover local football activities. Somali Football Federation president, Abdiqani Said Arab, who delivered a short speech at

the end of the match, said it was a pleasurable moment for his federation to welcome the minister for youth and sport to the sole functioning facility in the country by the time, praising the minister’s commitment to work with the federation in terms of football promotion in the country. “Honorable minister, I wholeheartedly invite you to the platform to present the trophy to the winning team and before that we are all here to listen to your constructive advice” president Abdiqani Said Arab said before handing over the microphone to the minister. The Somali Minister for youth and sport, Mr. Mohamed Abdullahi Hassan, first sent his congratulatory message to the Somali National Army and then commended the Somali Football Federation officials

for promoting good cooperation with the notational institutions plus the huge work they are doing to develop football in Somalia. “I congratulate you for winning the national Army day trophy” the minister said as he presented the trophy to Heegan FC captain, Fariid Hassan Fariid. The minister also praised both teams for making high profile exhibition during the game. Founded on 12th of April, 1960, the Somali National Army, reached a cooperative deal with Somali FA in 2014, when the country’s Army Chief of Staff, Brigadier General Daher Aden Elmi, announced a full package of sponsorship for the annual General Da’ud Cup, the second most populous sporting event in the country named after the founder of Somali military, General Da’ud Abdulle Hersi.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

HISTORY MADE IN SOMALIA AS FIRST SOCCER MATCH TELEVISED

istory was made in Somalia when the first football match in the country’s history was watched live on television on 17th of December 2015. The Somali military side [Horseed] won the General Da’ud Cup final match after beating their rivals, the Somali police-owned club of Heegan 2-1. The match is recorded as the most watched Somali football game in history as millions of Somalis in and outside the country were watching it on TV, while tens of thousands turned up for the match at stadium Banadir. Both teams were fully prepared for the match which local media voted as ‘the most hotlycontested’ football game in Somalia ever. The police club [Heegan] who were Somalia’s 2014-2015 scored the lone goal in the 32ndminute of the

match when Deeq Abdullahi Nur AKA Aariyo, placed a beautiful shoot into the opponents’ goal, ending the first half 1-0 in favor of Heegan FC.

Somali minister for youth and sport, Mohamed Abdullahi, described the first televised football match in the country as a ‘big step’ forward.

Horseed stepped up their attacks to compensate for the goal, but one of their playmakers, Robert Kareithi Meme [Kenya] was awarded with a red car in the 34th minute. However, that didn’t stop his side from moving on, as Adaani Barre Isse, did score the equalizing goal for his team in the 49th minute.

“Today I am more than happy. The first live match in Somalia shows we are moving forward” the minister for youth and sport Mohamed Abdullahi said.

Daniel Matengo [Kenya] made it 2-1 in the 60th minute of the match. Heegan didn’t despair of trying to equalize, but they lost several opportunities which could have made them at least a goal. Horseed last won the General Da’ud cup in 1983 and this was their 6th time to win the historic competition.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

“I praise the Somali Football Federation authorities for their professional organization. Football is playing a big role in the country’s development, peace building and income generation” the minister said. Somali Football Federation president, Abdiqani Said Arab, said that the live coverage was a test that his federation can televise a match saying it went on successfully. “This was a starting point and we have understood that

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

we can put live matches on air. I know it is a hard work which needs much money, but we are committed to continuing it” the president said. “In the months to come, we will at least try to have some of the hottest matches televised and I am sure we will finally approach our target which is to get every Somalia match screened live” said president Abdiqani Said Arab. Somalia has realized this major approach and other developments made in the country, as the young age president has only been in the leadership officer for less than 14 months. Somali parliament member, Mustafa Sheikh Ali Dhuhulow, who was one of several government officials at the stadium, said that football is now making Somalia recover from the past wounds. “A window of progress and public integration has been opened by the Somali Football Federation. This is an encouraging move” the law maker said. “I am a fan for Heegan, but I don’t mind if we have been defeated. This is football, so you can win or lose” added Mr. Dhuhulow who is one of the most football-mad government officials. However, apart from the trophy, the winners were awarded with 45 million Somali shillings as prize money, while Heegan FC received 25 million Somali shillings for the second place. Somali army commander, General Ali Bashi Mohamed Haji, said it was an honor for the country’s armed forces that their founding father is still remembered with such a football competition.

History “General Da’ud was born in 1924 in the village of Mareeg south east of the country and he died in 1965. Somali FA and the National Army will continue holding the completion hand-in-hand” the army commander said adding that the organization of General Da’ud cup has strengthened the already healthy cooperation between the SFF and the Somali Army. The General Da’ud cup is the 2nd most populous sporting event in the country and is annually organized by the Somali Football Federation. The competition is titled in the honor of

the late General Da’ud Abdulle Hersi who is respected in the country as the founding father of Somali military. Broadened competition The General Da’ud Cup participation is now expanded to 16 teams. Previously only 12 football cubs used to participate in the competition, but as so many Somalis had shown their interest for the tourney, Somali Football Federation decided to broaden the competition which has now 16 football clubs in attendance.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

HEEGAN MADE GOOD PERFORMANCE AT CECAFA KAGAME CUP

or the first time in their football history, Somalia’s Police Football Club, Heegan FC, have represented the country in the 2015 CECAFA Kagame Club championship which was staged in Tanzania from 18 July to 2nd of August. Although they were ill-starred to progress from the group stage, they made good performance which attracted some key football experts in the CECAFA region. The team got only one point from the three matches it played. This means they had one draw and two defeats, but their exhibition showed that football in Somalia was making big changes in comparison with previous years. “They actually performed well. Their exhibition was professional and as far as I know, I have never seen a football club from Somalia performing like this—CECAFA is really very proud that football in Somalia recovered” Mr. Albert Oketch [Kenya] of CECAFA technical committee told SFF Magazine. “According to my football experience, the team was really good. Their defense and centre lines were good, but their scoring ambitions were insufficient, because they had no good strikers and I think that is why they were not scoring, but in general the team’s performance was top” Mr. Albert Oketch added. Heegan’s Captain Fariid Hassan Fariid, said his team was unlucky to be eliminated in the group stage,

saying this does not mean they were weak. “In football competitions, it always happens that big teams are disqualified in group stages, so this is football, but what makes sense is to perform well and make happy your fans and we really did that”

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

Captain Fariid Hassan Fariid said in an interview with SFF Magazine. Founded in 1950, Heegan won their first Somali Football league title in 1954 before they disappeared. But the old club was revived on 28th of May 2009 and they lifted their second league title in history six years after their revival.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

HORSEED CROWNED 2015 SUPER CUP WINNERS

n 24th of December, the Somali military Sports Club [Horseed] had confirmed their second major victory in the year after winning Somalia’s Super Cup for 2015. The 9-man military side defeated their rivals of the Somali Police [Heegan] by 3-1 in penalties after the allocated period of the match ended in 0-0. The duo hardly fought for the Super Cup title on that day, but it was a big misfortune for Heegan who were unable to score against the 9-man team who got two of their players awarded with red cards. Daniel Matengo [Kenya] was given a red carded in the 47th minute of the match, while his teammate, Mohamed Abdi Soomane was also sent out in the 79th minute, but that didn’t prevent their team from lifting the trophy. Mohamed Ahmed Mohamoud of Heegan was recognized man of the Somali Super Cup match for the year 2015. Somali Football Federation president, Abdiqani Said Arab, who talked to the media after the Super Cup match first thanked the two Televisions, Universal TV and the state-owned SNTV for taking the match before international audience. The president said that the live coverage will continue, although he acknowledged that his federation was unable to put every league match on TV screens. “The SFF is intending to get live coverage for our football matches

in the months to come, but during the early stages, some of the most interesting matches will be broadcasted live with the help from Somali TV channels” SFF president explained. The president added that the live coverage was encouraging business promotion and as well as will attract the attention of Somaliowned businesses in and outside the country who would like to promote their businesses through football. “The live coverage is a huge marketing drive for our football” president Abdiqani Said Arab noted. The president said he was very happy that some Somali trading companies were now showing interest for exhibiting their businesses in the football facilities.

“Another importance for the live coverage is to allow those who cannot attend the stadium and Somalis living abroad watch our football games on TV screens while at their homes and we have realized that dream” SFF president added. The president noted that hundreds of thousands of Somalis living outside the country for more than 30 years including those who were born abroad have the right to be able to watch football competitions taking place in the country and that was one of the main reasons for the live coverage. However, Hormuud telecome, the biggest Network provider in Somalia has partially supported the 2015 Super Cup match.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

JUBALAND STATE PRESIDENT SHOWS HIS FAVORITISM FOR FOOTBALL

Regional Jubbaland State President Sheik Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Madoobe) Shakes hands with footballers before enjoying a league match on February 6 2015.

fter becoming the first leader to allow his regional State to access a free and fair local football election in December 2014, the regional Jubba State president Sheik Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Madoobe) has showed his interest for football. Out of a number of Somali regional state leaders, Sheikh Ahmed Madoobe became the only one who made his way to Stadium Banadir to watch a national league match. He enjoyed a hotly-contested football match between Banadir Sports Club and Sahafi FC which ended in 0-0 on 6th of February 2015. Sheik Madoobe, a moderate leader had attracted much praise

and appreciation from Somali Football Federation for showing his commitment and favoritism for football.

we are welcoming such a footballloving leaderâ&#x20AC;? said Somali Football Federation senior vice president Ali Abdi Mohamed.

The regional state leader was accompanied by several high profile officials including National intelligence and Security Agency, General Abdirahman Mohamed Turyare, Somali ambassador to Kenya Dr. Mohamed Ali Nur (Ameeriko), a favorite SFF diplomat who assisted Somali National team for so many years when they travelled to Kenya and Tanzania for football matches.

In the past, Somali regional governmental authorities always appointed football leaders in their regions, but when the SFF stood firm on its decision that local football volunteers in regions must be elected and that regional authorities must not interfere, Sheik Ahmed Madoobe became the first leader to welcome the development and as a result the regional Jubba football authorities were elected with SFF officials monitoring their election.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The arrival of Sheik Ahmed Madoobe here at the Stadium shows how he is committed to football and

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

MIDNIMO FC WINS DIVISION ’C’ LEAGUE

nce upon a time, Midnimo Football Club, had played in Somalia’s elite National football league known as the [SFF 1st Division], but in recent years the football club remained in the Division ‘C’ league, although they now seem to be promoting. The team now won the 2014-2015 Division ‘C’ Football league in Somalia after years they had played in the low-profile competition and with this victory, they have booked their place at the 2016-2017 Division ‘B’ league. The Division ‘C’ Football league was attended by 7 clubs including Mogadishu United who finished 2nd place in the league. Mogadishu United itself promoted to the Division ‘B’ league according to the regulations of the competition. Here are the pictures of the 7 football clubs who took part in the 2014-2015 Division ‘C’ football league in Somalia.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

REGIONAL SOMALI SOCCER ADMINISTRATORS AVAIL FROM TRAINING COURSE

ootball administrators from regions across the country had benefitted from a five-day training course which was part of the Somali Football Federation’s ‘spread the football’ program.

boost the football administration knowledge and experience of the regional soccer office bearers.

Somali National League site [Gaadiidka FC] sponsored a colorful closing ceremony for the training course which was held at SYL hotel in the capital Mogadishu on Saturday 2nd of January.

“SFF is prioritizing to enhance the knowledge of regional administrators because an educated manager can have the power to develop their people and that is why we are giving the first priority to building up education” SFF secretary general Hassan Mohamed Mohamud told the closing ceremony.

Somali Football federation secretary general, Hassan Mohamed Mohamud, who first addressed at the closing gathering for the course which continued from December 29 2015 to January 2 2016, said that the course was intended to help

He said that the training course attracted a total of 21 football administrators from semiautonomous regional states of Somalia’s federal government. End to the high level administration course, regional football officials

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

have now the confidence and the knowledge to develop football in their respected regions with the help from Somali Football Federation. After thanking the two instructors at the training course, Mrs. Zuhur Hashi Mohamed from the [Puntland State] sub-regional football committee said that attending such a course was a ‘double advantage’ for her. “I benefitted much knowledge from this course. I also learned new friends and toured different sites” said Mrs. Zuhur. “We are only three women in this course, but I hope that Somali Football Federation will have produced a greater number of female football administrators in the country” she added. On her

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

side, Ayaan Abdirahman Ibrahim from [South West Somalia semiautonomous state] said that she now knows how to manage football and was hopeful to practice what she learned from here back in her zone to help the promotion of football in the south western regions in the country. “Knowledge is a key base for football development. End to this course, I feel I am completely different---this means I have learned more” she mentioned. SFF senior vice president Ali Abdi Mohamed added that it was his federation’s policy to extend football knowledge throughout the country to help regional office bearers be able to play a key role in the country’s football promotion. “As shown in our strategy, we plan to inaugurate the regional football leagues in 2016. Every regional state will have its own football league to be organized annually” the senior vice president told the closing ceremony. Director General of the transportation ministry, Ali Ga’al whose ministry owns the Gaadiidka FC which sponsored the closing ceremony praised Somali Football Federation authorities for their continuous efforts to promote football in the country. “I am very pleased that Gaadiidka FC one of the oldest clubs in Somalia has had the opportunity to sponsor this ceremony. We are also happy to meet with these young and active faces who came here to increase their football-related knowledge— we are always on your side in all your endeavors towards football development” said Mr. Ga’al whose

Gaadiidka FC is one of the founding members of Somali Football Federation. Somali Football Federation president, Abdiqani Said Arab, said his federation was very grateful to sports ministers of the regional semiautonomous states of the federal government of Somalia. He said without their cooperation such a course wouldn’t have been successful. The president thanked the two instructors who conducted the course: Mohamed Ahmed Tarabi and Ali Mohamed Ahmed for trying their best to teach the regional football office bearers how to become successful football administrators. He encouraged the trainees to work harder regarding to football promotion back in their regions. “We are hopeful you will practice what you have been taught” the president told the trainees during his address at the closing ceremony.

our 2016 plans include the organization of coaching and refereeing courses and more administration courses for all regions. And on your side we want you to play an important role so that we together can reach the level we are targeting” president Abdiqani Said Arab told the course participants before handing over the microphone to Somali National Olympic committee president Abdullahi Ahmed Tarabi. The president said that the NOCSOM was jubilant at the successive activities by the Somali Football Federation, adding that the continued football development initiatives were helping public integration and progress in the country. “Other sporting federations should follow Somali Football Federation’s footsteps” Somali National Olympic committee president Abdullahi Ahmed Tarabi noted before announcing the closure of the course.

“Apart from the regional leagues, Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

SFF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING LAUDS FOR FANTASTIC 2015 APPROACHES

omali Football Federation’s annual general meeting [AGM] lauded for the major achievements in the country including some unprecedented activities made by the federation during 2015. All congress members attended the AGM which was held in the capital Mogadishu on 31st of December. After the SFF president’s opening address, the AGM continued to discuss on several agendas in accordance with the SFF constitution. During his address, president Abdiqani Said Arab gave detailed information on the major achievements made by the federation since he was elected as president in 2014. He outlined to the congress that his federation implemented some of the development programs the president pledged during his post election address on 31st of

August 2014, with the stakeholders showing their satisfaction with the major approaches made in the country over the year. The president said that the increase of local competitions was one of the key pledges he made after his election a year ago, adding that some key plans in the four-year strategy have now been implemented. He praised the stakeholders for helping his executive committee for approaching their goals. “We have broadened the participation of our national league which now has 10 teams; we created a formal annual league for our youths and the strengthening of our grassroots programs were some of the tangible activities made by the federation during the past year” the president said in his address. The president said that his trips to

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

regions across the country were part of the preparations for the country’s sub-regional football leagues which will be inaugurated in 2016. He said that the registration of 800 children between the ages of 9-14 was a significant step forward and was part of SFF’s grassroots development schemes for the next four years. The realization of one of our longexisted dreams was to televise our matches live. Although it needs much investment, I promise to you that we will continue broadcasting the most important matches live until we will finally reach our target which is to get every Somali league match screened live” the president said. He thanked the world football’s governing body FIFA for its continued support, adding that the development projects in the country were vital for helping the growth of football in the war-weary

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

country. The president explained that his federation developed relationships and cooperation with FIFA, CAF and CECAFA. “In 2015 with the help from FIFA we implement our first technical centre and next year we plan to complete the construction of our headquarters—this will be the first ever SFF-owned building to use as headquarters” president Abdiqani Said Arab said during his prolonged address. “As I promised to you a year ago, accountability and transparence are our working policy and we will continue on that way” the president told the congress members. ACTIVITY REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT During the day-long annual general meeting, the SFF secretariat displayed a complete activity report for the year 2015. Senior vice president and the chairman of financial committee Ali Abdi Mohamed made a financial statement of the year, while the treasury displayed the 2015 financial report which was fully welcomed by the congress. The Congress also approved the 2016 budget with a unanimous vote. However, the congress members were fully satisfied with the transparency und the accountability shown by the SFF executive committee under the leadership of president Abdiani Said Arab. The congress also commended the federation for the unprecedented achievements made in the country so far.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

SOMALI FA PRESIDENT CROWNED AFRICAN FOOTBALL LEADER OF THE YEAR FOR 2015

he president of Somali Football Federation and CECAFA vice president, Abdiqani Said Arab, has been crowned as the African Football leader of the year for 2015. The president received the prestigious award during the Glo awards ceremony in Abuja, Nigeria, on the night of 7 January 2016.

The president has been recognized as the leader of the year because of his dedication to football and the professional organization of football development programs that protected thousands of Somali youths from falling into the hands of notorious criminals in the country. In his opening address of the Glo

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

awards ceremony, CAF president and FIFA acting president, Issa Hayatou, commended Somali FA president for the good organization of football activities back in his wardevastated country of Somalia. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A special salute this year goes to the president of the Somali Football Federation, Abdiqani Said Arab, honored in the [leader of the

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

year] category. In a very complex context, he succeeds to continue hoisting football as a vector of peace, a rallying factor, a cause of hope for the Somali youth” CAF president Issa Hayatou said in his opening address. After receiving the award, SFF president Abdiqani Said Arab, said that such high profile recognition was marking a great honor and publicity for him, his federation members and the entire people of Somalia. “On behalf of Somali Football family, I would like to thank CAF president Issa Hayatou and his executive committee for honoring Somalia to have such high level award. Somalia has gained this victory with a team work, so thanks to my executive committee members, the secretariat and the stakeholders for their cooperation” president Abdiqani Said Arab noted. “I take this opportunity to thank CAF Secretary General, Hicham El Amrani and his team for being fully aware of what is going on around the continent and particularly in Somalia” president Abdiqani Said Arab explained. The president said that receiving this award was encouraging him and members of the SFF to redouble the football-related development programs in the country. “Knowing the difficulty situation in the country, we are committed to increasing our efforts until we realize our dreams of approaching a higher level than we are today” Somali Football Federation president, Abdiqani Said Arab said.

SOMALI FA BOSS APPOINTED CECAFA VICE PRESIDENT

he president of Somali Football Federation, Abdiqani Said Arab, was appointed vice president of the Council of East and Central Africa Football Associations [CECAFA]. During the CECAFA executive committee meeting in the Sudanese capital Khartoum, CECAFA president Dr. Mutasim Gafaar proposed that Abdiqani Said Arab of Somalia be appointed vice president of the regional Africa football body. Mr. Abdiqani was re-elected to CECAFA executive committee for a 5th term in November 2015, becoming the sole member from

the previous executive board who retained his position. Due to him being the most experienced member in the new executive committee, the CECAFA president, Dr. Mutasim Gafaar, suggested that Abdiqani Said Arab was the right one to become his deputy. However, CECAFA executive committee members unanimously approved that Abdiqani Said Arab [Somalia] will be serving as CECAFA’s vice president for a period of two years beginning from January 4th 2016.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

SOMALI GOVT JUBILANT AT THE CONTINUATION OF YOUTH SOCCER TOURNEYS competition. On his side, the Mayor of the capital, Brigadier General Hassan Mohamed Hussein, said it was an honor for his administration to have a role in the smooth going of youth football programs which brought together and created a pleasurable atmosphere for hundreds of Somali youthful boys. “Such competitions are very useful for protecting our youths and we promise to continue our cooperation with Somali Football Federation” the mayor said during his address at the conclusion ceremony for the tournament.

he federal government of Somalia has expressed a feeling of great happiness and triumph over the organization of the yearly youth soccer tournament which was described by a top ministry of sport official as a ‘sign for peace’ and development. The last edition of the annually held soccer event which continued from 01-28 August 2015, gathered over 340 youthful boys under the age of 19. Most of the youngsters came through schools, but in the competition they were representing their respected districts in which they live. Boys representing Boondheere district had won the youth tournament after defeating their Waberi rivals 1-0 in the final match. More than 125 youngsters have been shortlisted from the competition by experts from the SFF technical department. Special

training programs were arranged for the selected youngsters to prepare them to represent their nation in the near future international youth football competitions. The 28-day long competition which was hosted at Banadir Stadium was organized by the local regional football committee with the go ahead and facilitation from Somali Football Federation and with the cooperation from the mayor of the capital. Somali Football Federation Senior Vice president, Ali Abdi Mohamed, who addressed at the conclusion ceremony of the tournament on 28thof August 2015, said that one of the main reasons for the organization of the annual youth soccer tournament was to hunt future U 17 and U 20 teams from the event, adding that creating friendship and integration among youths was also another important objective for holding such

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

Somali Police Chief, Major General Mohamed Sheikh Hassan Hamud, who is also the financer of Somalia’s current champions, Heegan FC, added that football is peace and was at the moment very crucial for the country which is emerging from years of conflicts. The police chief whose Football Club, Heegan FC, represented Somalia in the 2015 CECAFA Kagame Club championship held in Tanzania, said that continuing football competitions in the country were helpful for the improving security, as so many young people had refrained from violence and drugs and instead turned their attentions to football. Somali deputy minister for youth and sports, Osman Aden Dhuubow, told the ceremony that the organization of youth tournaments was showing signs for peace and development in Somalia, adding that Somali government was jubilant at the continuation of football activities in the country.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

SOMALI INSTRUCTOR REPRESENTS AFRICA AT CORE GATHERING IN GENEVA

omaliaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CAF referee instructor, Ali Mohamed Ahmed, was the sole African instructor selected to represent the Confederation of African Football [CAF] at the Center Of Refereeing Excellence [CORE] program at the UEFA headquarters in Geneva. Accompanied by three young promising African referees, the CAF instructor was the sole African refereeing instructor amongst 8 top level technical and fitness instructors, as he was appointed by CAF to represent Africa in the international CORE gathering.

of two phases held at the UEFA headquarters between May-October 2015. The first phase was organized between 4-15 May, while the second phase took place 22-29 October 2015. This was the first time in history that an expert from Somalia represented Africa in such a high profile gathering. It was an honor for Somali Football Federation and the entire people of Somalia that an instructor from the football-growing nation of Somalia had embraced such a huge responsibility on behalf of the African football family.

The CORE program composed Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

SOMALI PRESIDENT EXTOLS FIFA

football competitions---this is part of peace building in the country and I applaud for such a constructive move” president Hassan Sheik Mohamud emphasized. AMAZING EXPERIENCE The president said that it was an amazing episode that dozens of foreign football professionals are now playing in the country’s Nation Link Telecom Championship, saying this was a clear indication that Somalia was fully back.

President of the federal republic of Somalia, Prof Hassan Sheik Mohamud receives FIFA Fair play flag from Somali FA President, Abdiqani Said Arab.

resident of the federal republic of Somalia, Prof Hassan Sheik Mohamud receives FIFA Fair play flag from Somali FA President, Abdiqani Said Arab. The president of the Federal republic of Somalia, Professor Hassan Sheik Mohamud, has enthusiastically commended the world football’s governing body [FIFA] for its role in the promotion of peace and football development in the country. President Mohamud, made the announcement after receiving a gold medal and a fair play flag from Somali Football federation president, Abdiqani Said Arab, at Stadium Banadir where the president of the republic arrived and watched a football match at the invitation of the Somali Football Federation on 15th of May 2015. “On my behalf and on the behalf of the nation of Somalia, I acclaim

FIFA and its leadership for helping the creation of peace and public integration through football for peace initiatives in the country” president Hassan Sheik Mohamud told the media. He said that FIFA was also praiseworthy for financing the construction of football facilities in the country which he said was encouraging thousands of youths to refrain from violence and join football. THE REAL JOB The president said he was fully appreciating the widespread activities that Somali Football federation is doing in the country adding that the SFF was the sole institution that has so far done a real work in the country. “Actually it is a fantastic move forward that thousands of young people are arriving here on a daily basis to either play or watch

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

“This is what football is all about by bringing people of different cultural backgrounds together to create friendship and brotherhood amongst them” noted the president, adding he was exited that the improving security situation in the country was accepting foreign players to arrive in Somalia. FULL ACCESS TO THE PRESIDENTIAL PALACE The president gave Somali Football Federation officials full access to the presidential palace with no restrictions whenever they need to meet him. “My office is open to you, so come to me any time and let me know all concerns you may have” president Hassan Sheik Mohamud told SFF officials as he and other government officials including ministers and parliament members enjoyed a football game on that day. The football match was part of the memorial commemoration of the 72nd anniversary of the Somali Youth League (SYL), a group of 13 young men who brought about Somalia’s independence in 1960. The patriots are now known as the fathers of independence.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

SOCCER CLUBS AND REGIONS BENEFIT FROM FIFA DONATION

Somali FA President, Abdiqani Said Arab addresses at the distribution ceremony of the equipment on March 1st 2015.

omali Football federation donated footballs to 25 soccer clubs in the country, the grassroots development program and as well as to regional zones. In 2015 the world’s football governing body [FIFA] donated 860 footballs of which 60 are official match footballs to Somalia as part of FIFA’s additional assistance to the country. “We are sending a big thank you to FIFA and we hope that the global Football body will donate such assistance to Somalia every year”

said SFF president. Somali Football Federation president, Abdiqani said Arab, who addressed at the distribution ceremony of the equipment on 1st of March 2015, said that the SFF was very grateful to FIFA for the additional assistance.

“FIFA sent these footballs to Somalia for the purpose of soccer promotion in the country and by virtue of that we are donating them to our clubs and as well as regional zones” the Somali FA president explained.

“This FIFA assistance came in the right time, because we have much needs for the footballs at the moment and they will help develop the quality and techniques of footballers in the country” president Abdiqani Said Arab, said during the distribution ceremony.

The president thanked regional state leaders in Somalia for accepting football independence from governmental interference adding that the SFF was fully appreciating the move by authorities in regional states which he said was in favor of football development.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

SOMALIA APPRECIATES CAF FOR FA PRESIDENT´S AWARD

omalia had shown its admiration for the 2015 African Football [leader of the year award] presented to the country’s Football Federation boss Abdiqani Said Arab by the governing body of African Football [CAF]. Somali government officials, president of the national Olympic committee, Somali FA president and members of his executive committee, Somali Football stakeholders, presidents of national sporting federations and national sporting associations, former and current Ocean stars members and referees including retired and active referees all gathered at a luncheon at the Lido Sea Food restaurants in the Lido Beach resort of Mogadishu on 17th of January 2016 to show support for the Somali FA and to thank CAF for awarding Somalia. Former Somali FA vice president,

Abdulkadir Mohamud Abdulle, who addressed at the appreciation ceremony, said it was a historic moment for Somalia to have its FA boss presented the African football leader of the year award. “It is a very great experience in Somalia’s football history. I am really very happy and I don’t know what more I can say. All Somali people are with you in all your endeavors to develop our football” said Mr. Abdulle who served as SFF vice president from 2001 to 2005. SFF senior vice president Ali Abdi Mohamed added that the good governance award presented to president Abdiqani Said Arab will encourage the country’s football federation members to redouble their efforts. He announced that the SFF has drawn a special rehabilitation program for the street boys and child soldiers to build a

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

good future for them. The president of Somali National Olympic Committee, Abdullahi Aahmed Tarabi said it was a great and historic achievement for Somalia that its football federation was awarded by the African football governing body CAF for good governance and the development of football in a country where it was impossible to do such work. “Our sport is lacking the government’s role because the world sport goes with financial support from their governments. I hope that one day we will be securing huge support from our government and I am sure if we get the kind of support we need from our government, Somalia sport will grow more” Somali NOC president Abdullahi Ahmed Tarabi told the gathering. The chief of Somalia’s correction troops and former

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

international football referee, Major General Bashir Mohmed Jama, said he was commending the Somali Football Federation for wining a prestigious award. “I am one of the football volunteers and I know that Somali FA has been working under very hard circumstances. They are hardworking heroes. It is a great publicity for the entire Somali people that our football federation was awarded by CAF for their good governance. This is really something that we are all proud of” General Jama told the appreciation ceremony. CECAFA vice president and the president of Somali FA Abdiqani Said Arab who finally addressed at the gathering praised the country’s sporting family for showing their appreciation with the new approaches. The president said that the [leader of the year award] given to his federation through him was giving Somalia a moral boost. “This will encourage us to increase our efforts “he said.

“On behalf of the Somali Football Family, I would like to send my heart-felt greetings and a big thank you to the president of CAF Issa Hayatou and his executive committee for leading African football to more progress and for honoring Somalia to be given such high profile award” SFF president told the ceremony. President Abdiqani Said Arab also praised CAF Secretary General Hicham El Amrani and his secretariat team for always being concerned and well-informed about football activities throughout the continent and in particularly that in Somalia. The president thanked his executive committee members, secretariat, the media department and the stakeholders for their joint efforts in the promotion of football in the country. “I recognize my media and communications manager, Shafi’i Mohyaddin and his team for the big

role they played in our football. Without them the outside world wouldn’t have known what we are doing here, so our media team was the main drive for Somalia winning this high level award from CAF” the president announced.

Our media team has developed a very healthy relationship with both local and international media who also have helped us put our activities before international audience. SFF president Abdiqani Said Arab

At the end, President Arab, lead a memorial and a prayer service for the late Somali FA presidents: Said Mohamud Nur, Farah Addo and those who lead the federation before them including Nur Hussein Abdi, who was one time known as the father of Somalia’s sport.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

SOMALIA MARKS INT´L DAY OF SPORT FOR DEVELOPMENT AND PEACE

omalia joined the world in celebrating the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, with a beautiful gathering to mark the global day held in the capital Mogadishu on 6th of April 2015. The event was hosted at the FIFArefurbished soccer facility, the stadium Banadir and was jointly organized by Somali Football Federation and Somali National Olympic Committee (Somali NOC). The president of Somali NOC, Abdullahi Ahmed Tarabi, Somali FA senior vice president, Ali Abdi Mohamed, the deputy minister for youth and Sport, Osman Aden Dhuubow, government lawmakers and former Ocean Stars members joined the country’s 25 football clubs and fans who gathered at

the facility to observe a full day of events in the commemoration of the global day. Somali FA senior vice president, Ali Abdi Mohamed, who first addressed at the festival, said it was an honor for the Somali Football federation and its clubs to welcome Somali NOC and key government officials to Stadium Banadir to jointly observe the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace. “Today we are marking the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace with a festival here at Stadium Banadir and I want to take this opportunity to send a big thank you to FIFA for renovating this facility for Somalia” SFF senior vice president Ali Abdi Mohamed told a gathering.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

“It is a great privilege for the SFF that some former child soldiers and street boys who were rehabilitated under FIFA-assisted football for peace initiatives in Somalia are now taking part in the celebrations for the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace” the senior vice president said. Former National team member Ahmed Abbaas Busuri, who spoke at the event on the behalf of old and current players, said it was a moment of pleasure for him to witness Somalia joining the world in marking such a great day for the whole world of sport. “I want to confirm that Somali NOC and Somali FA are praiseworthy for the continuation of sports development programs in the country—me appearing on the stage

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

today shows that old footballers were not forgotten” said the former Ocean stars member who received an award of recognition from the SFF in 2014 for his past contribution to the country. The former footballer is now on a wheelchair after he was seriously wounded in a car accident in the United States several years ago. The president of Somali National Olympic Committee, Abdullahi Ahmed Tarabi, who was the leader of the global day celebrations, said that peaceful atmosphere was vital for developing sport both in Somalia and in the outside world as well and for that reason, Somali NOC and its member associations were

using sport as a tool of peace and development. “Today we see that so many players are here with us and that is because the players are the backbone of our sport, as without players we cannot develop sport in Somalia and that is why Somali NOC and top government officials are here today to mark both the global day and as well as Somali Athletes’ day which is today” president Abdullahi Ahmed Tarabi, said before welcoming the deputy minister for youth and sport, Osman Aden Dhuubow to the platform. The deputy minister said that his government was fully aware of the

huge sports development programs that Somali NOC and its member associations were doing in the country, even through the lawless years during which a number of sporting officials and players lost their lives. The deputy minister was honored to conclude the marathon events which started earlier in the day and came to an end in the evening of April 6, 2015. In 2013, the United Nations General Assembly, recognized the 6thof April as the International day of sport for development and peace and this year [2015] the world marked the 2nd anniversary of the day.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

“THE ORGANIZATION OF FIFA/CAF SECURITY SEMINAR WILL HELP REDUCE RISKS AT AFRICAN FACILITIES” SAYS AMIR HASSAN

Amir Hassan received a certificate of attendance at the end of FIFA/CAF security seminar in Cairo on 14th of May 2015.

mir Abdi Hassan, who represented Somalia in the 2015 FIFA/CAF seminar for National security officers, said that the organization of the security event will play an important role in the reduction of risks at football facilities across Africa. The security seminar was held in Cairo, Egypt from 12-14 May 2015 and Amir Hassan said that seminar was meant a lot to the football federations in the continent which witnessed disasters and insecurity-

related incidents at football facilities many times in the past. “We benefitted so many things from this seminar regarding security and safety specially how to make security and safety plans at stadiums during local and international competitions such as safety precautions before, during and after matches and as well as evacuations and risk assessment” Mr. Amir Hassan told SFF magazine. “We have also learned FIFA integrity initiatives such as fighting against match fixing and related crimes”

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

he added. Senior Security Manager of FIFA, Serge Dumortier, who addressed at the seminar, said that FIFA was giving much priority to security and safety at stadiums adding that security ranks amongst the most important areas of football promotion. “Security is crucial and that is why FIFA established the division for safety and integrity” Serge Dumortier explained while addressing at the FIFA/CAF security seminar in Cairo.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

U-17 SOCCER TOURNEY CREATION, A CRUCIAL STEP FORWARD

he launch of the U-17 football tournament in Somalia is a very positive step taken towards the right direction and it is part of the Somali Football Federation’s youth development programs. “The main objective for the inauguration of this tournament is to get the 14-16 year olds in the country into a formal football league organized for them annually. It also gives the National league clubs the opportunity to produce young talented boys to prepare them for their National league

matches in the years to come” Somali FA president, Abdiqani Said Arab, said. The president added that coaches from the SFF technical department were tasked to hunt young talented players from the competition to get them into the future national junior teams. The SFF had drawn long term training programs for more than 50 young boys who were short-listed during the tournament. This was the first time that such a formal football tournament was organized for youths belonging to the local clubs.

Such program will be held every year as shown in the SFF strategic plans. The competition which continued from 25 September to 16 October 2015, gathered 8 youthful clubs representing: Banadir Sports Club, Dekedda FC, Elman FC, Gaadiidka FC, Heegan FC, Horseed Sports Club, Jeenyo FC and Sahafi FC. The competition was won by the Somali police side Heegan after beating Elman FC opponents 5-4 in penalties.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

ELEVEN YOUNG AGE REFEREES PROMOTED TO B LEVEL

OME ELEVEN young age Somali Football referees have been promoted to B level after they successfully practiced laws of the game, during Division 3 competitions for the past two years.

Head of Somali FA competitions department and executive committee member Mustaf Elmi Afrah told the ceremony that referees had done well over the years and for that reason they were awarded with such a promotion.

The referees who have been officiating the country’s 3rd division football league since 2013 were awarded with 2nd level certificates for professionally adopting laws of the game since after they joined the field. Somali Football Federation Secretary General, Hassan Mohamed Mohamud, who addressed at the promotion ceremony of the young referees organized at Somali FA headquarters on the 21st of January 2015, said the federation was fully satisfied with how the promoted referees implemented laws of the games during matches they officiated for a period of two years.

“The SFF had only given you the opportunity to practice the laws of the game you were taught, but you are the main cause for this promotion today, because you did well and due to that reason this promotion comes” Mr. Afrah told during his remarks at the event.

At the end, Somali Football Federation senior vice president Ali Abdi Mohamed urged the young age referees to redouble their efforts to be able to ensure the ambitions they are pursuing. “I know every one of you would like to culminate in international level and you can only realise that dream when you have done extreme efforts which can put you onto the

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

way of success” the senior vice president told the young referees. “On behalf of SFF, I promise to you that we will do every possible thing to upgrade your knowledge and I am very happy that you did the right things in the very beginning of your career from the day you joined this field” the senior vice president added before the referees received their promotion certificates. The promoted referees are: 1- Mohamed Nur Mohiyadin 2-Said Ali Ahmed 3- Aden Elmi Mohamed 4- Yahye Said Mohamed 5- Qadar Abdi Bashir 6- Abdirashid Osman Ibrahim 7- Ahmed HassanHussein 8- Mahad Abdulkader Abukar 9- Abdullahi Ahmed Ali 10- Mowlid Rage Ali 11- Abdikafi Abdullahi Mohamed

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

Somali Football Federation photographer Omar Ibrahim Abdisalam on duty.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

FROM RIGHT FIFA President Gianni Infantino, SFF General Secretary Hassan Mohamed Mahmoud and SFF senior Vice president Ali Abdi Mohamed.

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

DIVISION A FOOTBALL CLUBS

BANAADIR SPORTS CLUB

BARIGA DHEXE FC

DEKEDDA SPORTS CLUB

ELMAN FC

GAADIIDKA FC

HEEGAN SPORTS CLUB

HORSEED SPORTS CLUB

JEENYO FC

MOGADISHU UNITED FC

WAXOOL FC

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

DIVISION B FOOTBALL CLUBS

FC BANAADIR

GANTALAHA AFGOYE FC

JAMHUURIYA FC

MIDNIMO FC

MOGADISHU FC

OFC FC

RAJO FC

SAHAFI FC

SAVAANA FC

SOMALI FRUIT FC

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

DIVISION C FOOTBALL CLUBS

AL BEDER FC

GASCO FC

GEESKA AFRIKA FC

JAABIR BIN XAYAAN FC

RAADSAN FC

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

Somali Domestic youth football league inaugural day, September 9 2016

Somali Football Federation | Activity Magazine

Our New identity www.somsoccer.com/english

SOMALI FOOTBALL FEDERATION - SOCCER MAGAZINE

Articles inside

Eleven Young age referees promoted to B level

U-17 soccer tourney creation, a crucial step forward

FIFA/CAF security seminar will help reduce risks at African facilities

Somalia marks Int´l Day of Sport for Development and Peace

Somalia appreciates CAF for FA president´s Award

Somali Govt jubilant at the continuation of youth soccer tourneys

Soccer Clubs and regions benefit from FIFA donation

Somali instructor represents Africa at Core gathering in Geneva

Somali President extols FIFA

Somali FA Boss appointed CECAFA Vice president

Somali FA president crowned African football leader of the year for 2015

Regional Somali soccer administrators avail from training course

SFF Annual General Meeting lauds for fantastic 2015 approaches

Midnimo FC Wins Division ’C’ League

HEEGAN made good performance at CECAFA Kagame cup

Jubaland State president shows his favoritism for football

Horseed crowned 2015 super cup winners

History made in Somalia as first soccer match televised

Heegan FC collected 2 ceremonial trophies in one week

Heegan are 2015 Somali champions

CECAFA Elects new executive committee, SFF boss comes in for a 5th term

Football Sweetens life for Somali orphans at Turkish School

FIFA RDO official terms Somali FA Boss ˙a hardworking soldier˙

CECAFA lauds for football progress in Somalia

CECAFA acclaims Somali FA boss for winning leader of the year award

CECAFA overjoyed by football development in Somalia

Special assistance program for blind people launched

Somali Sports Minister lauds for football growth in the country

Somali FA communication director gains CAF praise

A successful FIFA grassroots program in Somalia

Somali children enjoy in a football festival

Youth coaches in Somalia trained at a FIFA course

SFF Communication officer delivers a lecture at CAF Media Seminar in Cameroon

The 4th phase of regional development scheme concludes in Galmudug State

SFF delegation attends FIFA Forward program workshop in Djibouti

SFF donates 120 beds and football equipment to a children´s rehabilitation Centre

Football administrators, coaches and referees in Puntland State trained

Somalia come of age, as our instructors conduct CAF (C) license course

Somalia benefits from its first ever FIFA youth refereeing course

Somali FA conducts Club management workshop for elite national league sides

Somalia begins use of referee communication technology

Message of the president

Somali FA donates office equipment to Puntland State Branch

FIFA MA refereeing course for Somalia gets to conclusion

Vibrant Somalia media helps boost our football

Coaches and referees in Middle Shabelle region avail from training courses

Somalia inaugurates first ever regional football league

Banadir Sports Club wins 2015-2016 national football league unbeaten

Jubbaland Football Benefit from SFF’s spread the football initiative

Banadir lifts 2016 Super Cup trophy