RABAT, MOROCCO — Somali football reached a historic milestone at the 2025 CAF Awards in Rabat, Morocco, as Omar Abdulkadir Artan was named CAF Men’s Referee of the Year. His triumph marks the first time a Somali has reached the pinnacle of African refereeing, igniting pride across Somalia and the wider East African region.
Artan’s win came amid stiff competition from top referees across the continent, underscoring his remarkable consistency, professionalism, and keen eye for fair play. He has steadily carved a trailblazing career, including becoming the first Somali referee to oversee an African Champions League final in Cairo. His accolades continue with a recent historic selection as the first Somali official for the FIFA World Cup, cementing his role as a pioneer for Somali sports.
The award reflects not just personal achievement, but also the growing reputation of referees from the East African CECAFA region. Artan has often highlighted the pride he feels representing Somalia, saying the weight of his nation’s flag inspires him to perform at his best. His success is already serving as inspiration for young Somalis, encouraging them to aim high in football—not only as players, but as referees and officials shaping the game.
The CAF Awards 2025 itself was a star-studded affair, celebrating Africa’s finest in football. Moroccan stars shone brightly, with Achraf Hakimi taking Men’s Player of the Year and Ghizlane Chebbak honored as Women’s Player of the Year. Morocco’s U20 team was named Men’s National Team of the Year, while Nigeria’s Super Falcons clinched the Women’s National Team award. Pyramids FC of Egypt earned Men’s Club of the Year, and Uganda’s Shamirah Nabadda was named Women’s Referee of the Year.
The ceremony also celebrated African football leadership, presenting the CAF President’s Outstanding Achievement Award to three East African figures for their contributions to the sport. Amid these honors, Omar Abdulkadir Artan’s groundbreaking victory stood out, symbolizing the rise of Somali football on the continental stage and the boundless potential of the next generation.