Ahmed Yahya, president of the Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania (FFRIM) and a member of the Executive Committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), has addressed recent criticisms directed toward CAF and its leadership. Speaking candidly in an interview with Le Pays, a Burkinabe daily, Yahya sought to reassure stakeholders and football fans that the organization is in capable hands and that progress continues under the current administration.
Yahya acknowledged that scrutiny is part and parcel of leading a continental football organization. “I would like to reassure everyone that the home of African football, the CAF, is well-run,” he said. “There are rumors circulating in the press, and that’s normal since everyone is doing their job. It’s the same at FIFA. We must accept what is said, and if mistakes occur—and I won’t overlook them—it’s the journalists and investigators who must set us straight. But I can affirm that CAF is performing well, as evidenced by its executive committee and the president, elected by the general assembly, who is giving his all.”
The Mauritanian leader also highlighted the challenges of transitioning from a long-standing system to a new structure. “Certainly, the first few years are difficult after a system that reigned for decades,” Yahya explained. “I am convinced that President Ahmad, who is like a brother to me and whom I know well, is doing a good job.” Yahya emphasized that leadership in African football requires patience and collective effort, particularly given the scale of the changes implemented in recent years.
One of the significant achievements Yahya cited under Ahmad’s leadership is the organization of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the first edition to feature 24 nations. “CAF is preparing to host its AFCON with 24 teams, and that is an achievement people tend to forget,” he noted. The expansion of the tournament reflects CAF’s commitment to broadening opportunities for African nations and promoting the development of football across the continent.
Beyond administrative milestones, Yahya stressed the importance of unity among African football stakeholders. “I would say to my African brothers, instead of dividing ourselves, we need to unite and work together to make up for lost time. African football suffers from many shortcomings compared to other confederations, which are surpassing us through impressive development programs,” he said. Yahya expressed confidence that CAF’s current executive committee has the vision and determination to address these challenges and drive meaningful progress for the continent.
In closing, Yahya’s remarks painted a picture of cautious optimism. While acknowledging the difficulties and criticisms that accompany leadership in African football, he remained resolute in his support for CAF and President Ahmad. He believes that through collective effort, transparency, and strategic planning, African football can strengthen its structures, enhance its competitive standards, and close the gap with other continental confederations.
Yahya’s statements reflect a broader effort by CAF officials to communicate confidence in their management while encouraging collaboration among member associations, journalists, and stakeholders, signaling a continued commitment to advancing African football on both administrative and competitive fronts.
