In a significant stride towards revitalizing Somali football, the Somali Football Federation (SFF) has inaugurated its second youth development centre in Kismayo, the capital of Jubbaland State, just a week after opening its first in Baidoa.
The launch, held on Sunday, February 23, 2025, marks a pivotal moment for the football-loving city, situated approximately 500 kilometres south of Mogadishu.
The new facility aims to nurture young talent in the Under-9, Under-13, and Under-15 age groups, providing them with structured training and a pathway to professional football.
SFF Senior Vice-President Ahmed Takal presided over the inauguration, emphasizing the federation’s commitment to grassroots development across the nation.
“The Somali Football Federation has decided to open development centres in all states. This is one of them after the first one was opened in Baidoa, South West State of Somalia,” Takal stated during the ceremony.
He highlighted the strategic importance of these centres in fostering a sustainable pipeline of talent for Somali football.
Kismayo, renowned for its rich football history, was chosen as the location for the second centre due to its past prominence in regional competitions. “I am very excited that Kismayo is hosting the second development centre to be opened in the country. This region was once famous for football,” Takal remarked.
“Kismayo won the most trophies of Somalia’s regional football competitions. Now with the launch of this centre, I am very hopeful that the city will soon regain its status as a football powerhouse.”
The inauguration was attended by several dignitaries, including Abdirashid Abdirahman Amir, the Minister for Youth and Sport in Jubbaland State, and Ahmed Abdullahi Ahmed, the Chairperson of the Jubbaland Football Association. Minister Amir expressed his gratitude to the SFF for investing in the region’s youth.
“I would like to announce with a loud voice that Jubbaland State will fully join hands with Somali Football Federation in terms of football development,” Amir declared, pledging the state’s unwavering support for the initiative.
This development comes at a time when Somali football is witnessing increased momentum.
