CECAFA President Andemariam Graces Somali Football Federation General Assembly 2026

The President of the Council of East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA), Paulos Weldehaimanot Andemariam, has graced the Somali Football Federation General Assembly 2026, underscoring the regional body's commitment to strengthening football development across member associations. The event, held in Mogadishu, marks a significant step in rebuilding Somalia's football infrastructure amid ongoing recovery efforts.

Background and Significance

Andemariam, who assumed office in Nairobi earlier this year as the new CECAFA President, has prioritised engagement with member associations. His presence at the Somali assembly signals CECAFA's support for the federation's strategic plans, which include grassroots programmes and capacity building. The visit also comes ahead of the CECAFA Elective General Assembly scheduled for February 7th in Djibouti, where key leadership decisions will be made.

Key Highlights from the Assembly

  • Leadership Endorsement: Andemariam commended the Somali FA for its resilience and commitment to football development despite challenges.
  • Strategic Partnerships: Discussions focused on leveraging CECAFA resources to enhance coaching, refereeing, and youth competitions in Somalia.
  • 2026 Tournaments: The assembly aligned with CECAFA's announcement of seven tournaments for the 2026 season, offering Somali teams more competitive opportunities.

    • Regional Football Integration

    Andemariam's attendance is part of a broader CECAFA strategy to integrate all member associations into regional activities. The President has previously emphasised the need for unity and collaboration, as seen during the zonal union presidents' participation in the upcoming elective assembly. For Somali football, such high-level visits boost morale and attract investment. Analysts note that consistent engagement from CECAFA leadership can accelerate Somalia's football revival, with potential benefits for the entire East African region.

    Conclusion

    CECAFA President Paulos Andemariam's presence at the Somali Football Federation General Assembly 2026 reaffirms the regional body's dedication to inclusive development. As Somalia charts a path forward, the support from CECAFA—through tournaments, technical assistance, and leadership—will be crucial. The football community now looks ahead to the Djibouti elective assembly, where the future direction of East and Central African football will be shaped. For real-time updates on CECAFA and African football, follow SokaFundi for expert analysis and breaking news.