CAF President launches Football Management Execuctive Programme in South Africa

The Confederation of Africa Football (CAF) in collaboration with the University of Cape Town (UCT) has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative meant to reshape the future of African football.

The initiative dubbed CAF-UCT Football Management Executive Programme, was launched by the CAF President, Dr Patrice Motsepe and leadership of the UCT on Monday, September 2 , 2024, in South Africa.

The programme aims to upskill and empower football administrators from CAF’s 54 Member Associations, marking a significant milestone in the journey towards strengthening the governance and leadership of African football. 

It also blends online learning with on-site modules at UCT’s prestigious Graduate School of Business aimed to equip football administrators with cutting-edge skills and knowledge. 

In the vibrant atmosphere of the launch event, which brought together representatives from 28 African nations, the message was clear: education is the driving force behind excellence in football administration. 

Culture of success

Dr. Motsepe passionately underscored this, emphasizing that knowledge and training were indispensable in building a culture of success, transparency and professionalism across African football. 

“Education is the foundation on which excellence is built. It is through learning and continuous development that we can foster a future of success for African football,” Dr. Motsepe stated. 

For his part, Vice Chancellor of UCT, Professor Mosa Moshabela highlighted the significance of the collaboration with CAF and hailed Dr Motsepe’s visionary leadership and commitment to the future of football on the continent. 

“When I reflect on this partnership with CAF, it’s clear that the leadership is not just thinking about football today, but about the quality of tomorrow’s leaders. This programme shows that CAF is serious about empowering football administrators to think strategically and lead boldly,” Professor Moshabela remarked.

The leadership team from UCT who attended the launch further illustrated the weight of the collaboration between the two institutions. They included UCT’s Chancellor, Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe and Council Chair Advocate, Norman Arendse.

Focus

The launch marked the first phase of the CAF Football Management Executive Programme, targeting English-speaking African nations while French-speaking countries will have access to the transformational initiative later to ensure that no part of the continent is left behind in the push for football development. 

It's primary focus is to enhance the skills and expertise of football stakeholders, building the capacity of CAF’s 54 Member Associations and fostering innovation and leadership. 

It is more than a training initiative — it is a vision for sustainable and forward-thinking African football governance. The initiative promises to be a defining moment in African football’s history — one where education, vision, and leadership come together to build a brighter and stronger future for the sport across the continent.

Ghana's participation

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) was also well represented at the launch. 

General Secretary, Prosper Harrison Addo Esq., and Deputy General Secretary, Ama Brobey Williams attended the event, signaling Ghana’s enthusiastic participation in the programme. 

They assured that the GFA was keen to leverage the opportunity to strengthen its leadership and strategic capabilities, positioning Ghana as a key player in the evolution of African football. 

According to them, the initiative, backed by CAF and UCT, was more than just an educational programme but a rallying call for football executives across Africa to rise, lead with integrity and champion the growth and sustainability of African football.