FIFA President Gianni Infantino has announced that more than USD 1 billion has been invested in the development of African football since 2016 through the FIFA Forward Programme.
Speaking at the 47th CAF Ordinary General Assembly in Kinshasa, Mr Infantino highlighted FIFA’s continued commitment to supporting the growth of the game across the continent.
“Football has the power to give hope and dreams to the children of Africa,”
said Mr Infantino, addressing representatives of CAF’s 54 Member Associations.
“We all have a duty to work hard, to unite, and to give every child in Africa the chance to dream and to play.”
Transforming African Football Through FIFA Forward
Since its launch in 2016, the FIFA Forward Programme has provided funding for infrastructure projects, competitions, and operational costs for Member Associations and regional bodies across Africa.
Between 2016 and September 2025, FIFA Forward investments in Africa reached USD 1.06 billion, and by the end of the current four-year cycle in 2026, the figure is expected to rise to USD 1.28 billion, including USD 1.08 billion directed specifically to the continent’s 54 Member Associations.
African Teams on the Global Stage
CAF President Patrice Motsepe expressed his gratitude to FIFA for its strong support, especially through global tournaments such as the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, which will feature four African clubs; Al Ahly FC (Egypt), Espérance Sportive de Tunis (Tunisia), Mamelodi Sundowns FC (South Africa), and Wydad AC (Morocco).
Players from 19 African countries have participated in the FIFA Club World Cup, including nine nations that have never appeared at a FIFA World Cup, a milestone that reflects the growing reach of African football.
“Those four clubs represented Africa with pride, and we’re confident they will do even better next time,” said Mr Motsepe.
“Thank you to FIFA and to President Infantino for the continued support and sacrifices.”
Expanding Opportunities for African Football
Africa’s presence in global competitions continues to grow.
An unprecedented nine or possibly ten African nations will participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026, while ten teams will represent the continent at the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025.
The FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2025, to be hosted in Morocco, will feature five African teams.
Investing in Youth and Talent
FIFA is also advancing long-term talent development initiatives across Africa.
Through the FIFA Talent Development Scheme (TDS), the organization plans to open between 20 and 30 FIFA Academies by 2027, helping young players receive world-class training and opportunities.
Meanwhile, the Football for Schools programme is already active in over 40 African nations, introducing millions of children to the game through schools and communities.
A Call for Unity and Progress
Concluding his address, Mr Infantino called for unity among African football leaders
“We must continue to work together, to unite Africa and African football.”
“A united Africa has a strong voice on the global stage, and together, we can build a bright future for the beautiful game.”
