The Electronic Somali Sports Federation (ESSF) held a high-level strategic meeting with the Minister of Youth and Sports of the Federal Government of Somalia, H.E. Mohamed Abdulkadir, at the Ministry's headquarters in Mogadishu to discuss the future development of esports and youth engagement through digital sports across Somalia.
The ESSF delegation was led by President Mr. Said Abdullahi and General Secretary Mr. Abdilahi Abdirashid, who presented an overview of the federation's achievements, ongoing programs, international engagements, governance initiatives, and long-term vision for establishing esports as a recognized and impactful sporting discipline within Somalia.
During the meeting, the federation highlighted its efforts in promoting competitive gaming, youth empowerment, digital innovation, talent development, and Somalia's representation within the global esports community through partnerships with international organizations and participation in regional and international esports activities.
ESSF President presents the national esports jersey to the Minister.
As a symbol of appreciation and partnership, the ESSF leadership presented H.E. Mohamed Abdulkadir with the official Somalia National Esports Team Jersey, customized with the Minister's name, alongside other national esports team kits. The presentation reflected the federation's commitment to strengthening cooperation with the Ministry in advancing opportunities for Somali youth through esports and digital sports initiatives.
Speaking during the meeting, ESSF President Mr. Said Abdullahi emphasized the growing importance of esports as a platform for youth development, digital skills, innovation, and international engagement. He reaffirmed the federation's commitment to building a sustainable esports ecosystem that provides opportunities for Somali gamers, teams, and communities across the country.
The Minister welcomed the delegation and commended the federation for its dedication to developing esports in Somalia. H.E. Mohamed Abdulkadir reiterated that the Federal Government of Somalia places significant importance on the development of sports and youth as drivers of national progress, social inclusion, and economic opportunity. He noted that emerging sports sectors such as esports have the potential to engage a new generation of Somali youth and contribute to the country's broader development objectives.
The meeting also recognized the strong institutional support being provided by the Director General of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Mr. Ahmed Yussuf, and the Director of Sports, Mr. Sadaq Ahmed, both of whom have been working closely with the Electronic Somali Sports Federation to strengthen cooperation, facilitate development initiatives, and support the federation's strategic objectives. Their continued engagement demonstrates the Ministry's commitment to fostering innovation and growth within Somalia's sporting landscape.
Both parties expressed their shared commitment to enhancing collaboration between the Ministry and the Electronic Somali Sports Federation in areas including youth empowerment, capacity building, talent identification, national competitions, international participation, and the establishment of policies that support the sustainable growth of esports in Somalia.
The meeting concluded with a mutual understanding to continue strengthening cooperation and exploring future opportunities that will position Somalia as an active participant in the rapidly growing global esports industry.