Somalia set for two new development projects
FIFA is set to kick-off two new development projects in Somalia in the aftermath of the first-ever mission of a FIFA official to Mogadishu since 1986.
The Somalia Football Federation (SFF) is now set to plan for the implementation of its second Goal project, a technical centre at Mogadishu’s College University Stadium, as well as for the construction of an artificial turf pitch as part of world’s football governing body Challenger scheme. In 2013 FIFA hosted its first development course in Mogadishu for 27 years.
Somalia’s civil war had a severe impact on football infrastructure as the artificial turf pitch in Mogadishu’s Banadir stadium, funded by FIFA in 2006 was severely damaged as were other facilities. The pitch has now been refurbished and serves as the venue for the matches of the ten-team Somali Football League.
During the visit, FIFA’s Development Manager for Africa, Zelkifli Ngoufonja discussed the implementation of more football development and grassroots activities in the country with the country’s FA President, Said Arab Abdiqani.
FIFA is pleased to see that the SFF is aiming to promote the implementation of youth competitions and grassroots activities, and has made it a priority to extend its programmes to other regions outside Mogadishu.
After several years of violent conflict, the SFF is making concrete progress, football is moving towards a better future. The league is a success in Mogadishu, a trend that FIFA is confident will continue in the near future and is committed to support.
