CAF Executive Committee Member Expresses Confidence in Ethiopia's Capacity to Host 2029 AFCON

Addis Ababa October 23/2024 (ENA) A member of CAF Executive Committee and Former President of the Botswana Football Federation Maclean Letshwiti expressed confidence in Ethiopia's capacity to host the 2029 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) 46th Ordinary General Assembly was held in Addis Ababa yesterday.

 

During the occasion, President Taye Atske Selassie requested CAF to endorse Ethiopia's bid for the prestigious tournament.

Speaking to ENA, Letshwiti praised the warm hospitality accorded to him and CAF delegation by the Ethiopian government and people.

He also stated that the positivity of the Ethiopian people regarding the development of African football goes beyond mere commitment.

Noting that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stated the construction of 11 stadiums in preparation for the 2029 AFCON bid, he added, “I am so impressed, and I have no doubt that Ethiopia has the capability to stage another world-class AFCON.”

“Not only in football, even politically Ethiopia is a true African state committed to the development of Africans worldwide. We will apply the standards as CAF, but I have no doubt that Ethiopia will become top in their bid.”

Echoing this sentiment, Augustino Maduot Parek, President of the South Sudan Football Association, described Addis Ababa as “the Home of Africa.”

 

He acknowledged the significance of Ethiopia's role in the African Union and expressed enthusiasm for the country's infrastructure improvements, which will benefit both local communities and regional unity through football.

Moreover, as vice President of the Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA), I am proud that Ethiopia is a member, he said.

He recalled that Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda will host the 2027 Edition of AFCON.

“We will be happy if we get also another opportunity for Ethiopia to host the 2029 AFCON; for me as a person, it's something very grateful for our region, as well as for the CAF.”

However, there are many procedures and factors to consider regarding the level of AFCON organization, he said, adding, “For those of us in the region, we feel Ethiopia is like our home. Anything that helps develop infrastructure or brings joy to the people of Ethiopia is our joy.”