FIFA Council Elections: Hassan Waberi for African footy progress
The Vice President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Souleiman Hassan Waberi, was amongst the earliest to confidently reveal his candidacy for a position on the FIFA Council in the upcoming elections scheduled for March 2025.
The declaration signified a pivotal moment for the representation of the Eastern Africa region.
His announcement detonated considerable interest among football enthusiasts and sports leaders across the continent, heralding a potential new dawn for African football.
Native to Djibouti, Waberi has been at the forefront of African football since 2017. His journey has not been without its challenges; during his ascent to the vice-presidency of CAF, he defied the expectations of the Council of East and Central African Football Associations (CECAFA) by endorsing Ahmad Ahmad’s application for the CAF presidency, rather than supporting the then-incumbent Issa Hayatou.
That bold decision was viewed as a testament to his commitment to advancing the sport within the region.
It equally raised expectations about how his leadership might influence international football governance, particularly in a context where CECAFA currently needs a strong voice on the global stage.
Throughout his career, Waberi has amassed a wealth of experience, having served in various roles within the football ecosystem, thus solidifying his reputation as a leader dedicated to the sport’s development.
From 2012 to 2024, he presided over the Djibouti Football Federation, in addition to his active involvement with CECAFA. His extensive background provides him with invaluable insights into the dynamics of African football and its specific needs.
His candidacy has been met with optimism, as many regard him as a promising contender who could unlock new opportunities for the region’s football within FIFA. The hope is that his election will catalyse the development of football across East Africa, fostering greater access to resources and institutional support.
More so, Waberi’s bid transcends the mere pursuit of a position on the FIFA Council; it represents a chance to redefine Africa’s influence in global football and ensure that the voices are heard in crucial decisions affecting the sport across the continent.
To conclude, in an election on the horizon brimming with promise, the footballing world will be keenly observing the movements of this influential figure.
Contenders;
- Fouzi Lekjaa who wants to run for a new term (Morocco)
- Hany Abo Rida who wants to run for a new term (Egypt)
- Ahmed Yahya (Mauritania)
- Souleiman Waberi (Djibouti)
- Amaju Pinnick (Nigeria)
- Idriss Diallo (Ivory Coast)
- Mathurin de Chacus who wants to run for a new term (Benin)
- Djibrilla Hima Hamidou (Niger)
- Andrew Kamanga (Zambia)
- Mamoutou Touré who wants to run for a new term (Mali)
- Walter Nyamilandu who wants to run for a new term (Malawi)
