The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has unanimously endorsed FIFA’s latest update on the proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), welcoming the withdrawal of the initiative and reaffirming its commitment to transparency, accountability and the long-term development of African football.
Following a meeting of its Executive Committee, CAF backed the joint update issued by FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Secretary General Mattias Grafström, in which FIFA acknowledged shortcomings in the consultation process surrounding the proposed FFE.
FIFA admitted that mistakes were made in the handling of the initiative and apologised to its member associations and FIFA Council.
“We acknowledge mistakes were made in the process of the proposed establishment of the FIFA Forward Enterprise,” FIFA said, adding that the proposal was not intended to make member associations feel excluded from the process.
The world governing body also confirmed that the proposal has now been withdrawn and will no longer be considered.
Motsepe backs transparency
CAF President Patrice Motsepe welcomed FIFA’s response and stressed that governance, due process and transparency must remain central to the administration of football.
“CAF welcomes and endorses the ‘Joint Update’ by FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Secretary General Mattias Grafström,” Motsepe said.
“CAF will continue to focus on making African football amongst the best in the world and is reaffirming its commitment to adhering to global governance, transparency and auditing best practices.”
Motsepe described good governance and accountability as non-negotiable principles for football institutions across the continent.
“For us in Africa, adherence to governance, due process and transparency is crucial and non-negotiable,” he added.
CAF maintains focus on development
Despite the withdrawal of the FFE proposal, Motsepe said CAF would continue working with FIFA, its 54 member associations, sponsors and other stakeholders to strengthen football across Africa.
He identified youth development, infrastructure investment, coaching and support for national teams as key areas of focus.
“CAF will also continue to focus on developing our boys and girls football players, coaches and trainers, the national teams of our 54 member associations and the amateur and professional leagues on the African continent,” Motsepe said.
The CAF president also revealed that the organisation is making progress in discussions with existing and potential sponsors, commercial partners and investors.
The objective, he said, is to ensure CAF remains financially self-sustaining and independent while continuing to improve football infrastructure across the continent.
