CAF announces increase in annual funding for member associations to $700,000

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced a 33% increase in annual financial support for its 54 member associations, while funding for its zonal unions will rise by 20%.

CAF president Patrice Motsepe confirmed the new funding structure, under which each member association will receive up to $700,000 annually, up from $525,000.

The annual allocation for CAF’s zonal unions will also increase from $750,000 to $900,000, representing a $150,000 rise.

The latest adjustments form part of CAF’s broader efforts to strengthen football development across the continent and help national associations build sustainable structures.

Motsepe and the CAF Executive Committee have made increased financial support a key part of their commitment to improving football administration and development in Africa.

Since 2021, CAF has steadily increased the annual subventions provided to its member associations. At the time, each association received $200,000, before the amount was doubled to $400,000.

The allocation subsequently rose to $525,000 and will now reach up to $700,000 under the latest arrangement.

The latest increase represents a substantial expansion of CAF’s financial commitment to national football associations, many of which rely on external funding to support their operations and development programmes.

CAF said the additional resources are intended to help member associations strengthen their football development structures, invest in youth and women’s football, improve administration and governance, and establish sustainable programmes.

The funding is also expected to create more opportunities for players, coaches, referees and other stakeholders involved in the game.

For many African associations, increased financial support could provide greater scope to invest in grassroots football, improve competitions and strengthen talent development pathways.

Investment in women’s football and youth development is particularly important as African nations seek to improve their competitiveness in international competitions while expanding participation at all levels.

The focus on governance and administration also reflects the need for national associations to build effective institutions capable of managing the game and delivering long-term development programmes.

However, the impact of the increased allocations will depend on how effectively the funds are managed and directed towards football development priorities.

The latest announcement reinforces Motsepe’s stated ambition to make football across Africa’s 54 member associations world-class and financially self-sustaining.

With the annual allocation for member associations rising from $200,000 in 2021 to up to $700,000 under the new structure, CAF has significantly increased its financial support over the past five years.

The challenge for national associations will now be to translate the additional resources into tangible improvements in football infrastructure, youth and women’s competitions, administration and opportunities for those working in the game.