By Mohamed Siyad - Reporter
4 July 2026 - In a display of regional solidarity and support, Kenya's Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Bare Duale, Dadaab MP Farah Maalim and Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi presided over a reception ceremony to welcome Somali football referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, whose historic World Cup opportunity was abruptly halted last month.
The event, held at Eastleigh's prestigious BBS Mall—renowned as the largest shopping complex in East and Central Africa—celebrated Artan's groundbreaking achievement of being selected as the first-ever Somali referee to officiate at a FIFA World Cup tournament.
His selection placed him among an elite group of 52 match officials chosen for the 2026 competition, marking a significant milestone for Somali sports on the global stage.
Despite this professional setback, Artan received a warm reception from both the Somali diaspora community and Kenyan supporters.
The event served as both a celebration of his achievements and a statement of cross-border support in the face of disappointment.
The CS emphasized resilience and perseverance, encouraging young people across East Africa not to be discouraged by obstacles in their pursuit of dreams.
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He also outlined deliberate moves by the 5th administration led by HE president William Ruto in supporting sports and talent.
President William Ruto’s administration allocated KSh 26.4 billion to complete 39 stadiums nationwide to support youth talent this including The newly constructed and soon to be commissioned state of the art 60,000 capacity Talanta Stadium
This geared towards uplifting talent and successfully hosting the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This historic continental tournament will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania under the 'Pamoja Bid'.
Also in attendance was H.E Jabril Abdulle (Somalia Ambassador to Kenya), H.E Hussein Mohammed (President FKF), Hon. Yussuf Hassan (MP Kamukunji) and host Abdiweli Maalim (Chairman BBS Mall).