The Confederation Africaine de Football (CAF) demonstrated its ongoing commitment to football development with two significant meetings focusing on women’s football and technical advancement in Cairo, Egypt, on Tuesday.
Presided by CAF Vice-President and Women’s Football Committee Chairperson Kanizat Ibrahim, the Women’s Football Organizing Committee gathered to address critical areas shaping the female game.
Building on the success of the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League, the organisation has significantly increased its financial support, raising the tournament prize money from USD 400,000 to USD 600,000. This substantial investment underscores CAF’s dedication to elevating women’s football across the continent.
There was much emphasis on clarifying the specific roles and responsibilities of committee members, ensuring accountability and clear expectations for each participant.
The comprehensive meeting addressed crucial development areas with discussions centered on:
· Coaching convention framework
· Program support for Member Associations
· CAF AFCON U17 development tournament
· Coaching development strategies
· Coaching requirements for CAF competitions
· Capacity building initiatives
A significant portion of the discussion centered on Women’s Futsal, exploring its current state and potential development strategies. The committee examined ways to support and grow this emerging sector of women’s football, recognising its importance in the broader landscape of African football.
Women’s football expansion programs received extensive attention. The GIFT U-17 Development Tournament was thoroughly analyzed, with members reviewing its progress and future potential. Coaching education for women emerged as a crucial topic, with discussions centred on creating robust skill development strategies, scholarship opportunities and comprehensive training programs.
The meeting explored capacity building and professionalization initiatives, emphasizing the importance of creating sustainable career pathways for women in football. Social impact activities were highlighted, showcasing the committee’s commitment to using football as a tool for community engagement and women’s empowerment.
“The Women’s Committee and the Development Committee are crucial in addressing key development matters. It was an important opportunity to bring together two committees who are passionate about advancing African football, with a particular focus on women,” Ibrahim stated.
“During the meeting, we discussed various points aimed at developing football across the continent, with an emphasis on fostering the growth of women’s football. I believe that the plan presented by both the Development and Competition Departments of CAF provides us with the tools we need to achieve greater progress and push women’s football to new heights.
“I would also like to congratulate both committees for the positive changes we are already seeing in African football. The collective efforts and dedication to the game are truly paying off. I am confident that, with these continued efforts, the future of women’s football in Africa will be successful.”
These strategic meetings reflect CAF’s proactive approach to football development, emphasizing collaboration with Member Associations to drive continuous improvement in African football.
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