WHO WE ARE
The Afghanistan Sports Journalists Federation (ASJF) is the only official and internationally recognized organization representing sports journalists in Afghanistan. Founded in 2014 in Kabul by a group of committed sports journalists led by Sayer Zaland, ASJF gained recognition from the Association of International Sports Journalists (AIPS) in 2014 and has since served as a national platform for sports journalists, bringing professionals together across the country and connecting Afghan sports media with the global sports journalism community.
Our Mission
ASJF is dedicated to promoting professional sports journalism in Afghanistan through training, mentorship, and international exposure; strengthening ethics, transparency, and independence in sports reporting; empowering women and young journalists and supporting equal opportunities in sports media; providing accreditation and access to international sporting events for Afghan journalists; and building a global network that connects Afghan sports journalism with the international community. ASJF believes that sports journalism plays a crucial role in promoting peace, unity, and social engagement throughout Afghanistan.
Our Vision
ASJF’s vision is to create a professional, inclusive, and globally recognized sports media ecosystem in Afghanistan that informs, inspires, and empowers society through ethical and impactful sports journalism.
Key Activities & Programs
ASJF’s key activities and programs include the Annual Sports Awards, launched in 2016 to honor athletes, journalists, teams, and sports organizations; the Annual Congress, which brings together sports journalists from Afghanistan and abroad to discuss challenges, opportunities, and strategies for advancing sports media; workshops and training programs covering sports reporting, photography, broadcasting, and digital media, including international collaboration with AIPS and other media organizations; the Women’s Commission, dedicated to supporting and training female sports journalists; digital platforms and publications, including the official ASJF website and Sports90+ Magazine; sports media networking and forums with sports federations, the National Olympic Committee, and international organizations; accreditation and international representation, including AIPS International Press Cards; and advocacy and ethics work focused on transparency, good governance, and support for journalists facing professional challenges.
Our Structure
The ASJF operates through two governing bodies: the Executive Committee, which is responsible for day-to-day operations, national activities, and decision-making, and the International Board, which represents exiled and international journalists and provides oversight, advice, international engagement, and strategic guidance. Both bodies are committed to democratic processes, inclusive membership, including women and exiled journalists, and respect for the independence of sports media. Khoshhal Taib is the President of ASJF, Daryoush Ahmadi serves as Executive Director, and Shamsul Rahman Shams, Gohar Safi, and Niaz Mohammad Shinwari support the Executive Director as Deputy Directors. The ASJF Executive Committee also includes elected members and works with its specialized commissions to support professional development and sports journalism.
Our Global Connection
ASJF is a proud member of the International Sports Press Association (AIPS), participating in its congresses, training programs, and global initiatives, and maintains cooperation with AIPS to support international professional standards, oversight, advocacy, and engagement in sports journalism.