Former footballer and businessman Deeq Afrika has announced his intention to stand for President of the Somali Football Federation (SFF), saying his campaign will focus on expanding opportunities beyond Mogadishu and creating a national pathway for clubs, players and regions across Somalia. Deeq, a former Ajax youth player who also represented the Somali national team, has remained involved in the game after his playing career, including serving in the leadership of Jeenyo Football Club. Outside football, he is also an entrepreneur and businessman.
Announcing his candidacy, Deeq said Somali football needs to become more representative of the entire country. “Somali football cannot belong to one city. Talent exists across the country, but talent means very little if there is no pathway,” Deeq said. A central part of his vision is to strengthen football within Somalia’s regions and create a system through which regional clubs can progress into the country’s highest-level competitions.
He says clubs from across Somalia should have a realistic sporting pathway from regional competitions into the national league, with the opportunity to eventually compete for places in CAF continental competitions. “A young player or ambitious club in Kismaayo, Garowe, Baidoa, Beledweyne or anywhere else in Somalia should be able to see a clear road from their local competition to the highest level of Somali football — and ultimately to African competition.”
Deeq has also called for greater investment in grassroots football, stronger regional football structures, better organised national competitions and a more open and transparent federation.“We have the talent, the passion and the people. What we need now is a system that connects them. My ambition is to help build a federation that opens the game to the whole country and gives everyone a fair opportunity.” His campaign is being launched under the message: “Xiriir Furan. Fursad Siman.” An Open Federation. Equal Opportunity.