Djibouti continued to strengthen its reputation as one of Africa’s emerging football development hubs as high‑profile delegates attending the CECAFA Elective General Assembly toured the FIFA Talent Academy in Djibouti City.
The visit showcased the country’s growing investment in youth football and its commitment to building a sustainable future for the sport.
The delegation included some of the most influential figures in African football.
Among them were Gusau Ibrahim Musa, President of the West African Football Union (WAFU‑B) and head of the Nigeria Football Federation; Lamin Kaba Bajo, President of WAFU‑A and the Gambia Football Federation; and Said Athouman Said Ali, President of COSAFA and the Comoros FA.
Their presence highlighted the continental significance of the Assembly, and the respect Djibouti has earned for its development model.
During the tour, Gelson Fernandes, FIFA’s Director of Member Associations for Africa and a former international player, expressed deep admiration for Djibouti’s progress.
He noted that the delegation had seen “beautiful faces and young talent who will be the stars of tomorrow,” praising Djibouti as the leading East African country in successfully implementing the FIFA Talent Development project.
The momentum of praise continued with Mr. Faizal Sidat, President of the Mozambique Football Federation, who described the Academy as a blueprint for Africa’s future.
“This is the future of African football. We have seen young talents boys and girls who will shape the game for the next generation. In Mozambique, we do not have an academy like this, and we are here to learn from what Djibouti has achieved,” he said.
Lamin Kaba Bajo also emphasized the long‑term impact of Djibouti’s strategy, stressing that youth investment is the foundation of football success.
“Investing in youth and development is the most important step for the future. Djibouti is building a strong pathway for the next generation, and I believe the country will have powerful national teams both women and men in the coming years,” he stated.
The visit served as a powerful endorsement of Djibouti’s vision, infrastructure, and commitment to nurturing young talent.
With continental leaders applauding its progress, Djibouti is positioning itself as a rising football powerhouse and a model for youth development across the CECAFA region and beyond.
