Led by CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe, the meeting is scheduled to begin at 10:30 local time (07:30 GMT) and aims to prepare for the 46th CAF Ordinary General Assembly, which is planned for Tuesday, October 22, 2024.
This information has been confirmed through several press releases received on Monday from the CAF website.
Exco meeting
“This is a critical time for African football, and we are thrilled to be in Addis Ababa to discuss the future of our sport,” Motsepe shared in a recent statement.
“The EXCO meeting will set the agenda for tomorrow’s General Assembly, where key decisions that will shape the next phase of African football will be made.”
The Executive Committee meeting signals the beginning of a hectic week in Addis Ababa, as the Ethiopian capital gears up to welcome delegates from CAF’s member associations, zonal unions, and notable football personalities from across the continent.
This series of events will conclude with the General Assembly, an annual convening of Africa's foremost football decision-makers.
Ethiopia’s Role
Ethiopia is set to host the CAF General Assembly for the second time this year, following the successful event in 2017.
A statement released on Saturday, titled “Ethiopia Ready to Host 46th CAF Ordinary General Assembly,” announced that the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel will be the venue for this esteemed gathering.
“We are proud to host this assembly once again. Ethiopia has a long and cherished history with African football, and we are ready to showcase the best of what we have to offer,” said an Ethiopian football official.
Zonal Meetings
In preparation for the General Assembly, the CAF President has been participating in zonal union meetings that commenced yesterday.
The six zonal unions—WAFU A, WAFU B, COSAFA, UNIFFAC, UNAF, and CECAFA—are engaged in strategic discussions regarding the current state of football in their respective regions, ensuring comprehensive involvement in the pre-congress discussions.
“The zonal meetings are crucial for grasping the unique requirements of each region. These sessions provide an opportunity to thoroughly address the challenges and prospects that African football encounters at various levels,” Motsepe stated.
The CECAFA meeting, scheduled for today (Monday), is particularly important as Ethiopia plays a significant role in this regional organization. The other meetings were held on Sunday, with the results yet to be disclosed.
Charity Match
Alongside the crucial meetings, the week will also showcase a more spirited aspect of football, highlighted by a friendly match taking place at Addis Ababa Stadium later today.
This event will feature CAF and FIFA officials, along with renowned African football legends, fostering a sense of community amidst the otherwise formal agenda.
“A match like this transcends mere competition; it embodies the celebration of African unity and our collective passion for football,” stated a representative from the Ethiopian Football Federation.
As Addis Ababa prepares for an influx of guests, the city’s rich cultural heritage and dynamic sports environment are prominently showcased.
With significant discussions regarding the future of African football approaching, the stage is set for what is anticipated to be a historic event in Addis Ababa.