The 14th CAF Extraordinary General Assembly is set to take place in Cairo, Egypt, on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at the prestigious Marriott Mena House. The high-profile event will commence at 10:00 AM Cairo Time (08:00 AM GMT) and will be streamed live on CAFOnline.com and CAF TV, ensuring that football stakeholders across Africa and beyond can follow the proceedings in real time.
This important assembly will bring together key decision-makers in African football, including presidents of CAF’s 54 Member Associations, representatives from the six Zonal Unions, and senior figures from the global football community. The meeting will be chaired by CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe, whose leadership has played a crucial role in driving reforms and promoting the development of the game on the continent.
The assembly comes at a pivotal moment for African football, as CAF continues to implement new strategies to enhance its competitions, improve financial transparency, and strengthen its relationship with FIFA and other global football organizations. With numerous developments shaping the future of the sport, this gathering will provide a platform for critical discussions and decisions that will impact the governance and administration of football in Africa.
Key Meetings and Events Leading Up to the Assembly
Ahead of the main assembly, several significant meetings and activities have been scheduled to ensure a comprehensive approach to African football’s development.
On March 10, CAF’s Zonal Unions will hold their meetings, chaired by Dr. Motsepe. These sessions, beginning at 09:00 AM Cairo Time (07:00 AM GMT), will focus on the unique challenges and opportunities within each of the six CAF Zonal Unions. The discussions will allow regional leaders to share insights and collaborate on strategies to elevate football at all levels.
Later in the evening, a special friendly match will take place, featuring CAF officials and some of Africa’s most celebrated football legends. This game will not only celebrate African football’s rich history but also serve as an opportunity for officials and legends to engage with fans and stakeholders in a relaxed and inspiring atmosphere.
On March 11, the CAF Executive Committee (EXCO) will convene at 10:00 AM Cairo Time (08:00 AM GMT) for a crucial meeting that will review CAF’s progress and address major policy matters. This high-level session will include discussions on club licensing, financial reforms, youth development programs, and initiatives aimed at strengthening women’s football across the continent. The EXCO’s decisions will play a crucial role in shaping the direction of African football for years to come.
Expectations for the General Assembly
The Extraordinary General Assembly itself, scheduled for March 12, will be the main event where CAF leaders and stakeholders will deliberate on key issues affecting African football. The agenda will likely include discussions on:
- The expansion and improvement of CAF competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the CAF Champions League, and the CAF Confederation Cup.
- Strategies for enhancing the financial sustainability of African football, including new commercial partnerships and investment opportunities.
- Grassroots football development initiatives to nurture young talents and improve football infrastructure across African nations.
- Strengthening CAF’s governance framework to ensure transparency and accountability in football administration.
- The role of technology and innovation in modernizing African football, including the use of VAR (Video Assistant Referee) and advancements in player performance analysis.
Press Conference and Key Announcements
Following the assembly, Dr. Patrice Motsepe will hold an official press conference in the afternoon to address the media and provide insights into the key decisions made during the meeting. This will offer journalists and football stakeholders an opportunity to engage directly with CAF’s leadership and gain a deeper understanding of the organization’s vision for the future.
The press conference will be closely watched by football enthusiasts, administrators, and analysts across the continent, as it will set the tone for CAF’s priorities in the coming months. It will also provide clarity on any major changes in CAF’s structure, policies, or competition formats.
Implications for African Football
The 14th CAF Extraordinary General Assembly is expected to have far-reaching implications for football development in Africa. As CAF continues to work toward strengthening its position on the global stage, the decisions made during this assembly will be critical in shaping the continent’s football future.
One of the most anticipated aspects of the meeting is the discussion around the financial sustainability of CAF and its member associations. African football has witnessed significant growth in recent years, but financial challenges remain a major concern for many federations. Finding sustainable revenue streams and securing long-term partnerships will be essential for ensuring the stability and competitiveness of African football.
Additionally, the assembly will focus on youth and grassroots development, as CAF aims to build a solid foundation for the next generation of African football stars. With Africa producing some of the most talented footballers in the world, investing in youth programs and academies will be crucial in maintaining the continent’s strong football legacy.
The inclusion of technological advancements in CAF’s competitions is also expected to be a major topic. With the global game rapidly evolving, CAF is keen on integrating modern technology, such as VAR and advanced player analytics, to improve the quality and fairness of its tournaments.
Looking Ahead
As African football continues its transformation, the 14th CAF Extraordinary General Assembly represents a crucial milestone in shaping the future of the sport. With top football administrators, club representatives, and stakeholders gathered in Cairo, the event will play a key role in defining the next chapter of African football’s evolution.
The outcomes of this assembly will influence everything from tournament organization to grassroots initiatives, financial policies, and global partnerships. Football fans across the continent will be eagerly awaiting the results of these discussions, as they will impact the game at all levels.
With a clear focus on innovation, governance, and development, CAF’s leadership is determined to elevate African football to new heights. The 14th Extraordinary General Assembly will serve as a platform for collaboration, progress, and strategic planning, ensuring that African football continues to grow and compete at the highest level.
As the world turns its attention to Cairo, this assembly promises to be a defining moment for African football, with long-term implications for the sport’s growth, development, and global recognition.
