FIFA strengthens ties with Gabon during Gelson Fernandes’ working visit

FIFA’s Regional Director of Member Associations for Africa, Gelson Fernandes, paid a working visit to Gabon on Friday, March 6, 2026, as part of efforts to reinforce collaboration between world football’s governing body, national authorities and the country’s football leadership.

During his stay in Libreville, Fernandes held a series of high-level meetings aimed at reviewing the progress of football development projects in the Central African nation and exploring further areas of cooperation between FIFA and Gabonese institutions.

One of the key highlights of the visit was an audience with Gabon’s Minister of Sports, where discussions centred on the growth of football in the country, infrastructure development and training initiatives supported through FIFA programmes.

Both parties emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration between the government and football authorities to strengthen the sport’s foundations.

Fernandes also held a working session with the President of the Gabonese Football Federation (FEGAFOOT), Pierre-Alain Mounguengui, alongside members of the federation’s leadership team.

The meeting provided an opportunity to assess several ongoing initiatives, particularly projects funded through the FIFA Forward Programme.

Discussions focused on the modernization of sports infrastructure across the country, governance reforms within Gabonese football, and youth development programmes aimed at nurturing the next generation of talent.

Fernandes reaffirmed FIFA’s commitment to supporting Gabon in its efforts to strengthen football structures and create sustainable pathways for the sport’s growth.

The visit underscored FIFA’s broader strategy of working closely with member associations and governments across Africa to accelerate football development on and off the pitch.