Somali referee Omar Artan has thanked Kenyans for the warm reception he received after arriving in Nairobi on Friday, saying the support shown to him has made him feel at home despite the challenges he recently faced.
Artan was welcomed during a meet-and-greet event at BBS Mall in Eastleigh, Nairobi, where he was received by several leaders, including Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, and Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi.
Speaking during the event, Artan reflected on his long association with Kenyan football and explained that his connection with the country has grown through years of working alongside Kenyan match officials.
He noted that for the past three to four years, he has regularly collaborated with Kenyan assistant referees, helping build strong professional and personal relationships.
According to Artan, the reception he received in Nairobi reminded him of the unity that football can create across borders. He said he felt comfortable and welcomed from the moment he arrived, describing Kenya as a place where he feels at home.
The referee also shared details about his journey to the top of African football. Artan, who was named the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Men’s Referee of the Year in 2025, said his career began with many difficulties and limited support. Despite those challenges, he remained focused on his goals and refused to give up.
Using his own experience as an example, Artan encouraged young people to remain determined even when faced with obstacles. He urged aspiring athletes and professionals to focus on finding solutions instead of being discouraged by setbacks.
His recent experience gained international attention after he was denied entry to the United States to officiate at the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup. However, Artan has since been appointed to officiate the UEFA Super Cup match between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa in Salzburg, Austria, on August 12.
FKF President Hussein Mohammed praised Artan for remaining strong during a difficult period. He said the gathering in Nairobi was also a message against prejudice and discrimination in sports. Mohammed noted that what initially appeared to be a setback had instead brought greater recognition to the referee on the global stage.
He added that Artan’s story serves as an important lesson about resilience and perseverance, encouraging people to continue pushing forward even during difficult moments.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale also expressed confidence in Artan’s future, saying he believes the referee will overcome the recent challenges and go on to officiate at the next FIFA World Cup. Duale said such an achievement would be a source of pride for Somalia, Kenya and the entire African continent.