By Asma Abdullahi - Reporter
Somalia, July 17, 2026 – Somalia Football Federation (SFF) President Ali Abdi Mohamed, who also serves as a vice president of the Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA), met FIFA President Gianni Infantino to discuss the development of football in Somalia, the federation said on Thursday.
The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between FIFA and the Somalia Football Federation, including support for development programmes, youth football, and infrastructure to grow the sport in the country, according to the SFF.
The federation did not disclose whether any new funding or agreements were reached during the talks.
Related articles
Ali Abdi Mohamed also joined football association leaders from across Africa for discussions with Infantino on the development of the game and opportunities available to FIFA's member associations, the federation said.
FIFA has supported football development in Somalia through programmes aimed at improving governance, expanding grassroots football and upgrading infrastructure despite years of conflict that have disrupted sporting activities.
The meeting comes as Somalia seeks to strengthen its domestic football structures and increase participation in regional and international competitions.