Somali FIFA referee Omar Artan received a hero’s welcome in Ethiopia’s Somali Regional State, where thousands of fans and senior officials celebrated his achievements during the final of the 13th Somali Regional State Games in Jigjiga.
JIGJIGA (Somali Report) — Somali FIFA referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan received a hero’s welcome in Ethiopia’s Somali Regional State after arriving in Jigjiga as a special guest for the final of the 13th Somali Regional State Games, where thousands of supporters celebrated one of the Horn of Africa’s most accomplished football officials.
Artan, widely regarded as one of Africa’s leading referees, was welcomed at Garad Wiil-Waal International Airport by senior regional officials, including Somali Regional State Minister for Youth and Sports Mohamed Mahdi, Deputy Minister of the President’s Office Abdirizak Said, Jigjiga Mayor Shafi Ahmed and other government representatives.
The reception reflected Artan’s growing stature across the Somali-speaking world following his historic appointment as the first Somali referee selected to officiate at a FIFA World Cup.
Later at Jigjiga Stadium, where the football final between Siti and Shabelle regions was played, thousands of spectators rose to their feet as Artan entered the venue. Fans applauded, chanted his name and sang the iconic Somali patriotic song “Soomaaliyeey Tooso”, creating one of the most emotional moments of the tournament and underscoring the pride many Somalis feel in his achievements.
The final itself saw Siti Region defeat Shabelle Region 2–1 to lift the championship trophy, which was presented by Somali Regional State President Mustafe Mohamed Omar. The match was attended by senior regional leaders, sports officials, international referee Omar Artan and Ethiopia’s national football team coach.
Although organisers had hoped Artan would officiate the final, the internationally respected referee attended only as a guest of honour, citing prior professional commitments.
His visit comes just days after he was honoured in Nairobi, where Kenyan officials, football leaders and members of the Somali community celebrated his achievements following the controversy surrounding his absence from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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Artan had earned a place among FIFA’s elite panel of referees, becoming the first Somali official ever selected for football’s biggest tournament. However, he was unable to participate after being denied entry into the United States despite travelling with FIFA accreditation, a valid visa and a diplomatic passport.
The incident attracted international attention and sparked widespread debate about immigration policies, fairness and equal treatment in global sport. Despite that disappointment, Artan has continued to receive recognition across the Horn of Africa for his professionalism and resilience.
Despite missing the World Cup, Artan remains among FIFA’s highest-ranked referees from East Africa. He continues to officiate major Confederation of African Football (CAF) competitions and international fixtures, reinforcing his reputation as one of the continent’s most respected match officials. His achievements continue to inspire football communities across Somalia, the Horn of Africa and the global Somali diaspora.
From overcoming a childhood injury that ended his dream of becoming a footballer to rising through the ranks as a FIFA referee, Artan has become a symbol of determination for many young Somalis. His career includes officiating at the Africa Cup of Nations and receiving recognition as one of the continent’s top referees.
For many supporters gathered in Jigjiga, the celebration was about far more than football. It was recognition of a Somali who reached the highest levels of international sport through discipline, integrity and perseverance despite the many obstacles he faced along the way.
As Artan continues officiating on the international stage, his journey remains a source of inspiration for aspiring referees and young athletes across Somalia, Ethiopia’s Somali Region and the wider Somali diaspora, demonstrating that talent and persistence can overcome even the greatest setbacks.
About the Author
Fatuma Taxadar Yusuf is the Editor-in-Chief of Somali Report. She was the first woman to serve as an editor and media managing director in Somalia’s Puntland State. Previously, she worked with the BBC World Service and other leading media organizations in Somalia. She also serves as Deputy Chairperson of the Somalia Media Council, an independent body that regulates media standards and professional conduct in Somalia.
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