Football on the African continent has recently reached new heights, and if CAF follows through on its intentions, things will get even better, writes Junaid Benjamin.
What's the story?
According to the confederation's president Patrice Motsepe, the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations was a resounding success. So much so that – along with 17 sponsors and partnerships with 110 television networks – the competition managed to rake in a resounding profit of over $80 million (about R1.4 billion).
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Not only is that number a staggering one, but what is perhaps more impressive is that the number given is a significant improvement on the $4 million (around R74 million) profit CAF made from the 2021 AFCON.
Motsepe said: "If we look at previous editions, we made around $4 million. So we've jumped to $80 million, and a huge chunk of that money is going to the 54 countries for football development."
This certainly speaks to a brighter, more prosperous future for the beautiful game on the continent. Investments such as these can go a very long way as it benefits the nations off the field – something that should lead to improved performances on it. Stadiums, training facilities, and youth academies are essential components of a thriving football ecosystem, and these investments would not only provide venues for matches but also create jobs, boost local economies, and enhance urban development.
Looking at the most recent AFCON, we saw that the quality of football has improved, with many believing this edition of the tournament to be the best of its kind. This was not only due to the many surprises we saw during the showpiece, but because of the improved play of teams with the ball, knitting more passes together, keeping possession for longer spells, and so on.
While the past may fill Africans with pride, a better future is something that now seems to be on the horizon. Motsepe has also previously spoken of his intention to invest in the sport, and it is something he seems to feel very strongly about.
Speaking to the SABC after what is considered to have been a very successful, inaugural, African Football League tournament, the president of the continent's footballing body said that one of the purposes of the tournament was to improve finances across the board.
"At the heart of that, it's to make sure that there's more financial resources, more investment in football pitches, more investments in academies, more investment in the youth, more investment in football for boys and girls, and also more money for the players," he said.
The light that Motsepe wants to shine on youth football is so important because while it might seem like a long time until that shows in future squads, investments in grassroots football programmes are crucial for nurturing young talent and fostering a love for the sport from an early age. Not only that, but they provide an opportunity for youngsters to hone their skills and begin their trajectory from an even earlier age, which most top academies and institutions around the world are known to place great emphasis on.
What is also inspiring is that the South African billionaire understands the importance of ensuring a better today for starlets to blossom tomorrow.
"The urgency now is to get started and make things happen," Motsepe said in 2022, per Premium Times.
"Some of our young people are among the best in the world. What they need is financial and other resources, and support.
"The most difficult part of any venture is when you start. Success perpetuates itself."
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