The Ministry of Sports, in collaboration with the National Sports Authority (NSA), has announced an immediate ban on all community and schools football competitions across the Western Area.

The directive was issued in a press release dated September 17, 2026, following a stakeholder meeting on sports and youth activities held at the Conference Room of the Office of National Security (ONS).

The meeting, convened by National Security Coordinator Abdulal Caulker, focused on growing concerns over youth violence and hooliganism associated with football activities across the country.

According to the Ministry, recent incidents involving supporters from different communities participating in Central One Football Association (COFA)-organised competitions have escalated into violence, resulting in loss of life and the destruction of property worth millions of leones.

The Ministry said the stakeholders subsequently agreed to suspend community and schools football competitions as part of measures to address violence and protect public safety.

While acknowledging the role of football and sports in promoting unity, the Ministry expressed concern that some communities and young people were allegedly using football activities to create security challenges and disrupt the daily activities of residents.

The Ministry of Sports and the NSA condemned the reported acts of violence and said they would not allow football activities to become a threat to national peace and security.

Under the new directive, all community and schools football competitions in the Western Area are suspended until further notice.

Organisers of such competitions have been warned to comply with the directive, while security agencies have been tasked with enforcing the ban across the Western Area.

The Ministry further warned that individuals or organisations that violate the directive could face legal action.

A technical committee comprising relevant stakeholders has also been established to review existing regulations and develop additional guidelines for monitoring football activities before the suspension is lifted.

However, the Ministry clarified that the ban does not apply to recreational football activities among friends.

The Ministry called on the public to comply with the directive and prioritise peace, unity, and national security.