Mogadishu, Somalia – A gathering of Somali football leaders, government officials, and athletes in Mogadishu on evening celebrated the growing momentum of football development within the country, with a particular focus on the advancement of women’s football. The event, described by attendees as a display of unity and pride, publicly acknowledged the efforts of Somali Football Federation (SFF) President Ali Abdi Mohamed and his administration.
The assembly brought together a diverse cross-section of Somali society, including football enthusiasts, government ministers, members of parliament, business leaders, and players from the national women’s team, known as the Ocean Queens. The atmosphere was one of appreciation for the SFF’s recent achievements, particularly in establishing a national league for women and forming the country’s first ever women’s national football squad.
The event’s central theme, proclaimed as “THANK YOU MR. PRESIDENT,” underscored the widespread recognition of President Mohamed’s commitment to fostering football at all levels. This recognition extends beyond domestic circles; President Mohamed was recently elected as the senior vice president of the Council of East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA), a testament to his growing influence within regional football governance.
Addressing the gathering, President Mohamed expressed his gratitude for the unwavering support of the Somali football community. “I thank the football family members for organizing this amazing event,” he stated. “Such a gathering shows the unity and love Somali people have for football. I am proud to have all of you standing by us, as we jointly work towards a brighter future for Somali football.”
The focus on women’s football is particularly significant given the historical and cultural barriers that have traditionally limited female participation in sports within Somalia. Advocates emphasize that the inclusion of women in football is not merely about athletic competition, but a crucial step towards challenging gender inequality and promoting women’s rights. The presence of players from the Ocean Queens, dressed in traditional Islamic attire – abayas and hijabs – at the event symbolized this progress and the evolving landscape of women’s sports in the country.
The SFF’s efforts align with broader initiatives to promote gender justice through sport in Somalia, recognizing the potential of football to empower girls and build resilience. This development comes as Somalia continues to rebuild and strengthen its institutions following decades of conflict and instability. The resurgence of football, and particularly the inclusion of women, is seen as a positive sign of social and political progress.
The event also served as a platform to celebrate Somali culture, featuring live music and performances that showcased the nation’s rich heritage. Attendees highlighted the strong connection between football and national identity, emphasizing the sport’s ability to unite communities and foster a sense of collective pride.
According to the SFF, the gathering included over 100 attendees, with dozens of young women gaining the opportunity to play in front of a public audience for the first time. The involvement of 5 youth volunteers in coordinating the event further underscored the commitment of the next generation to the development of Somali football.
The Somali Football Federation has been actively working to revitalize the sport in recent years. In , FIFA highlighted Somalia’s progress in growing the women’s game as part of its global women’s football campaign. The country also recently revived its futsal championship after a 15-year hiatus, demonstrating a broader commitment to expanding football opportunities across all levels.
The event concluded with President Mohamed’s optimistic outlook for the future of Somali football: “Together we will achieve greatness.” This sentiment reflects a growing sense of hope and determination within the Somali football community, as the nation strives to establish itself as a competitive force on the regional and international stage.
