The Malian Football Federation (FEMAFOOT) achieved a significant breakthrough on Tuesday, 26 August, by launching its first-ever Federal Instructors’ course while also awarding CAF “C” coaching licences to 27 newly qualified trainers.
The ceremony, held at the federation’s headquarters in Bamako, highlighted FEMAFOOT’s determination to place education and professional training at the centre of football development in Mali. It marked a moment of pride for both the federation and the coaches who successfully completed their qualifications.
CAF “C” Licence Graduates
The CAF “C” Licence programme, overseen by National Technical Director Ousmane Guindo, ran from 6 May to 7 July 2025.
Across two months of intensive training, 27 coaches undertook both theoretical and practical modules designed to meet the rigorous standards set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
The graduates, now officially recognised as CAF “C” Licence holders, are expected to play a crucial role in nurturing talent at grassroots and intermediate levels of the game in Mali.
Their achievement reflects the broader ambition of FEMAFOOT to raise the overall quality of coaching across the nation.
Launch of Federal Instructors’ Course
Alongside the awarding of licences, FEMAFOOT also inaugurated its inaugural Federal Instructors’ course.
Twenty Malian technicians, selected through strict criteria, began their training with the objective of becoming certified instructors capable of teaching future coaches.
This initiative seeks to create a sustainable cycle of knowledge within the country. By developing a pool of expert instructors, FEMAFOOT hopes to ensure that coaching education can be expanded and standardised nationwide, reducing dependence on external resources.
Strategic Vision from FEMAFOOT Leadership
Speaking at the event, FEMAFOOT’s second vice-president, Me Toubaye Koné, underlined the strategic importance of the initiative. He described the programme as a reflection of the federation’s long-term vision, in which training and education serve as the foundation of football development in Mali.
Koné emphasised that participants should view this opportunity as both an honour and a responsibility to contribute to the nation’s footballing progress.
“This initiative is not only about acquiring skills,” he said. “It is about carrying the duty of developing football for Mali’s future.”
CAF Supervision and Recognition
The programme will be carried out under the supervision of the Confederation of African Football, ensuring that the courses meet continental standards.
CAF’s involvement also provides international recognition for the certification, giving Malian coaches the credibility to contribute at higher levels of competition.
Building for the Future
For FEMAFOOT, the double milestone represents more than a ceremonial success. It is part of a wider strategy to professionalise football in Mali, improve technical standards, and create a clear pathway for coaches to grow within the sport.
By investing in both immediate coaching capacity and the longer-term development of instructor expertise, the federation has taken a decisive step towards ensuring that Malian football continues to progress in line with international expectations.
As the 27 graduates prepare to apply their newly acquired skills, and the 20 future instructors embark on their training journey, FEMAFOOT’s commitment to education stands as a cornerstone for the future of the game in the country.
