CAF lives in all 54 member associations – Patrice Motsepe

Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe has delivered a strong message on unity and shared responsibility in African football, insisting that the continental body is not confined to its headquarters in Cairo but exists through its 54 Member Associations.

Speaking at the COSAFA Congress in Zimbabwe, Motsepe stressed that the strength and identity of African football lie in collaboration across all regions of the continent.

“CAF isn’t in Cairo alone, it lives in the 54 Member Associations across Africa.”

His remarks were widely interpreted as a renewed push for inclusivity, decentralisation, and stronger engagement with regional football bodies, particularly as CAF continues to implement reforms aimed at developing the game at grassroots and professional levels.

The CAF President’s message also underscored the importance of shared responsibility among national associations in shaping the future of African football, from infrastructure development to youth competitions and elite tournaments.

Observers at the COSAFA Congress described the statement as a clear affirmation of CAF’s intention to strengthen its presence beyond North Africa and ensure that every member association plays an active role in decision-making and development programmes.

Motsepe’s leadership has consistently emphasised investment, unity, and long-term sustainability, with African football authorities increasingly focusing on closing the gap between regions and improving competitiveness across the continent.

The COSAFA gathering provided a platform for reaffirming those goals, with Motsepe’s remarks serving as a reminder that the success of African football depends on collective effort rather than centralised control.