Dr. Patrice Motsepe, re-elected as CAF president, urged African governments to invest in football infrastructure. He highlighted the continent’s inadequate facilities as a barrier to hosting international matches and noted that while many nations face financial constraints, investing in sports can lead to economic growth. He emphasized the contrast between well-supported and underfunded football nations in Africa.
Dr. Patrice Motsepe, recently re-elected as the president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), has urged African nations, particularly Eswatini, to invest in football infrastructure. He emphasized that inadequate facilities hinder the continent’s ability to host international matches, as many stadiums do not fulfill FIFA and CAF standards. This issue was highlighted as Eswatini prepares to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers against Cameroon and Mauritius at Mbombela Stadium in South Africa.
Motsepe acknowledged the financial constraints faced by many African nations, which often prioritize funding for loans over sports infrastructure. He argued that despite other pressing issues, investing in football offers substantial economic benefits. “Many heads of state… have little funds… they say should we take the money to build a stadium or hospital?” he stated, encouraging leadership to recognize the long-term value of proper facilities for football development.
Moreover, Motsepe noted the contrasting levels of football development across the continent. While some countries effectively compete on the global stage, others are hindered by limited government support and budgetary constraints. He advocated for a collective effort to enhance infrastructure to foster sporting excellence in Africa, highlighting the potential for economic growth through improved football facilities.
Dr. Patrice Motsepe’s call to action emphasizes the critical need for investment in football infrastructure across African nations, with a particular focus on Eswatini. His insights reveal the economic advantages that such investments could generate, urging leadership to balance immediate healthcare and educational funding with the long-term benefits of sports development. As African nations aspire to elevate their football standards, infrastructure improvement becomes a necessary priority for sustainable growth and success in sports.
Original Source: new.observer.org.sz
