FIFA MA Elite Referees Course Kicks Off in Somalia

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FIFA MA Elite Referees Course Kicks Off in Somalia



By Emmanuel Patrick Laku – Sports Hunter South Sudan

MOGADISHU, September 7, 2025 – The FIFA MA Elite Referees Course officially commenced today in Somalia, marking a significant step forward in the development of the nation’s football officiating standards.

The five-day training program brings together 31 referees selected from various levels of Somali football. The objective is to enhance their technical and physical competencies, as well as deepen their understanding of the modern game.

The opening ceremony was attended by key officials including Mr. Ali Cabdi Maxamed, Chairman of Somali Football Relations; Yusuf Hussein, 3rd Deputy of the Relations Committee; Dr. Yusuf Ahmed, Secretary General of the Somali Football Federation; and Xasan Yabarow Wiish, Chairman of the Judicial Committee.

The course is being led by FIFA-appointed international experts, including:

  • Ali Maxamed Ahmed, FIFA Technical Instructor
  • Mark Ephraim Mzengo, FIFA Physical Instructor

This elite seminar underscores FIFA's continued commitment to strengthening refereeing capacity across Africa, and Somalia’s growing ambition to raise the bar in football governance and officiating


Photo Credit: SFF

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