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.
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“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.
