Edited By Ali Musa Axadle Times International–Monitoring.
In a groundbreaking moment for East Africa, Djibouti City celebrates an accomplishment that reverberates beyond its borders. For the first time, an East African representative, Sulayman Hassan Waaberi, takes a seat on FIFA’s Executive Committee. Elected in the vibrant city of Cairo, Waaberi’s success shines a spotlight on a region that has historically watched from the sidelines of global football.
Waaberi’s four-year term marks a significant stride for East Africa, providing a unique opportunity for the region to finally echo its voice within the corridors of global football power. It’s a narrative of perseverance and vision, capturing FIFA’s goal of inclusivity. Africa now enjoys six seats: five allotted to men and one to a woman. The competition was fierce, with ten nations in the race, but it’s Djibouti, Morocco, Egypt, Mauritania, and Niger whose representatives emerged victorious in gaining male representation. A female voice completes the African delegation—a harmonious balance in FIFA’s leadership landscape.
Sulayman Hassan Waaberi’s path has been a long but rewarding journey, one reflecting dedication and resilience. His deep-rooted involvement in football administration stretches over the years, having shaped domestic football in Djibouti and extended his influence throughout the East African region. Since March 2021, he’s actively served as Vice President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), firmly establishing himself as a pivotal figure in the realm of East African football. Does this story resonate with anyone striving against the odds?
“Football isn’t just a sport to me; it’s been my life’s call,” Waaberi candidly acknowledges, his history woven through roles as varied as club administrator to the helm of regional football bodies. His recent nomination by CECAFA for FIFA’s esteemed table is a testament to his enduring commitment.
Now at the heart of shaping global football policy, Waaberi is poised to champion Africa’s interests within FIFA. “Our mission is clear: to echo Africa’s voice at FIFA, champion investments, and safeguard African football’s dreams,” he passionately articulates.
This election is not just a personal triumph but a beacon for East Africa—a region often absent from such high echelons of football governance. His Vice Presidency at CAF marks prior heights for East African officials, yet this election to FIFA places Waaberi where continental decisions are made, with intentions to carve out a path for Africa in the competitive world of football.
Still, the journey is not without challenges. Djibouti, a nation nestled in the Horn of Africa, grapples with limitations in competing on broader stages, finding itself with a modest talent pool and facilities lagging far behind those of larger nations. “With just a million people, and absent the large diaspora that enriches football in other regions, we count on nurturing homegrown talent. Infrastructure, therefore, becomes critical,” Waaberi emphasizes.
Under his visionary leadership, Djibouti has seen a renaissance in football infrastructure. Stadiums now dot the country’s regions like oases of hope, and the launch of a state-of-the-art academy presents a future of dreams nurtured locally.
For Waaberi, addressing infrastructure gaps is key to Africa’s football evolution. “To stand toe-to-toe with global titans like Barcelona and Real Madrid, we must mirror their commitment to world-class facilities,” he reflects. “The day Africa builds equivalent stadiums and embraces professional training and sustained investment is the day we truly compete.”
For Djibouti, this is not merely an achievement—it’s a symbol, a pivot from which hope springs eternal. A small footballing nation proving that with visionaries at the helm, one can aspire to and achieve greatness.
With files from the BBC Somali Service.
