Rabat hosted a high-level seminar on Thursday, under the title “Morocco within its Continent: South-South Partnership, Effective and Solidarity-Based, for Football Radiance.” The seminar brought together sports officials and former players from various African countries.
The discussion emphasized the need to “materialize” the idea of establishing a think tank and research center on African football, its history, and its development, with Morocco serving as its headquarters. The seminar took place one day before the meeting of the Executive Committee of the Confederation of African Football in Rabat.
Organized by the Amadeus Institute, this event supports the dynamic football environment in Africa, as Morocco hosts the Africa Cup of Nations for under-23 teams (CAN U23). The institute’s contribution aims to ensure a “stronger radiance for the African continent, in which trust is placed in its talents, capabilities, and qualifications,” according to its president, Ibrahim Al-Fassi Al-Fihri.
Distinguished personalities from the world of football and politics, including presidents of African football federations, African foreign ministers, and sports experts, gathered to discuss the Moroccan initiative. Al-Fassi Al-Fihri highlighted Morocco’s extensive investments and partnerships across Africa, stating that Morocco has become the second-largest investor on the continent and the foremost investor in its western region.
The participants agreed that “Morocco has become a central hub for African football” and stressed the importance of combining confidence in African football talent with the necessary guidance and training to ensure future success.
Football as a Tool for South-South Cooperation
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation emphasized football’s role as a central tool for South-South cooperation to enhance African integration. They actively engaged in 46 partnerships to transfer skills, provide expertise, develop infrastructure, and promote women’s football.
Participants acknowledged the developmental opportunities provided by football and the benefits of continental cooperation in sports. Football was described as a universal language that transcends borders and cultural differences, creating strong bonds between nations and fostering mutual understanding.
Establishment of an African Research Center
The participants recommended the establishment of an African research institution or center specialized in development through football. This center would serve as a collaborative platform, bringing together experts, decision-makers, and football stakeholders to formulate policies and initiatives aimed at promoting the integral role of football in African development and influence on a global scale.
Among the attendees were representatives from Morocco and various African countries, including Lamin Kaba Bajo, President of the Gambia Football Federation, former Gambian Foreign Minister Rafael Tuju, former Kenyan Foreign Minister Mamadi Touré, Senegalese economist Mbarék Diop, and former CAF Vice President and Ghanaian international player Anthony Baffoe.
Renowned veterans of African football, such as Cameroon’s Alexandre Song, Ghana’s Asamoah Gyan, Senegal’s El-Hadji Diouf, and Egypt’s Wael Gomaa, also participated in the discussions.