Ghana Football Association President, Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku chaired the CAF Zonal WAFU B meeting in Cairo on Monday March 10, 2025.
CAF President, Dr. Patrice Motsepe, who graced the meeting as a Special Guest, and accompanied by General Secretary Veron Mosengo-Omba was warmly welcomed by President Simeon-Okraku.
President Simeon-Okraku eulogised the CAF President for his amazing leadership in his first term and for repositioning the continent's governing body. He also praised President Motsepe for the huge financial investment in African football since he took office.
President Simeon-Okraku also expressed his immense gratitude to members of WAFU B for their unwavering support and dedication to the zone.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe during the CAF Extraordinary General Assembly 2025 zonal meeting WAFU A in Cairo, Egypt on 10 March 2025 ©Weam Mostafa/BackpagePix
President Okraku highlighted the immense progress made under the new WAFU B Executive director, Philippe Tchere.
"Under the leadership of our Executive Director, we have undergone a remarkable administrative transformation at the zone Secretariat. The diversity and expertise brought into our team have not only streamlined our operations but also fostered a culture of collaboration and innovation. This diversity has been particularly beneficial in promoting cohesion with all Member Associations in the zone," President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku said
"By embracing different perspectives and backgrounds, we have strengthened our relationships with each Member Association, ensuring that their unique needs and challenges are addressed effectively. This cohesion has enabled us to work more harmoniously, aligning our efforts towards a common goal of football development across the region.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe during the CAF Extraordinary General Assembly 2025 zonal meeting WAFU A in Cairo, Egypt on 10 March 2025 ©Weam Mostafa/BackpagePix
President Okraku underscored key capacity building as an essential tool for developing the human capacities of members of the sub-regional body, indicating the numerous interventions made while announcing the completion of the new WAFU B headquarters in Abidjan.
"We have prioritized human capacity and skills development for our employees, recognizing that our people are our greatest asset. Through various training programs and workshops, we are equipping our staff with the skills necessary to excel in their roles and contribute to the growth of football in our region.
"I am pleased to announce that WAFU-B has moved to its new headquarters in Abidjan. I extend an invitation to all of you to join us for the inauguration on April 27th, 2025. This milestone marks a significant step forward for WAFU-B, providing us with a central hub to coordinate our efforts and drive football development across the region."
CAF President Patrice Motsepe during the CAF Extraordinary General Assembly 2025 zonal meeting WAFU A in Cairo, Egypt on 10 March 2025 ©Weam Mostafa/BackpagePix
With the vision of WAFU B aligned with that of CAF President, Dr. Patrice Motsepe, the sub-region plans to organise at least five competitions for boys and girls this year.
"This year, we are committed to organizing at least five youth competitions (boys and girls), which will not only enhance the competitive spirit among our Member Associations but also provide valuable opportunities for talent development. Our vision for WAFU-B aligns closely with that of CAF President Patrice Motsepe, focusing on growth and making African Football great.
"With the right leadership in place, I am confident that we are well-positioned to achieve our goals and elevate football in our zone."
The meeting brought together key football stakeholders from across the WAFU Zone B region of football-heavy nations such as Ghana, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, Benin, Niger and Togo.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe during the CAF Extraordinary General Assembly 2025 zonal meeting WAFU A in Cairo, Egypt on 10 March 2025 ©Weam Mostafa/BackpagePix
President Okraku presided over discussions that centered around the development of football within the zone, focusing on critical areas such as infrastructure improvement, youth development, and competition organization.
Under Okraku’s leadership, WAFU Zone B has been working to strengthen the quality and visibility of its tournaments, and other regional competitions that serve as key platforms for young talent to showcase their skills.
The WAFU B CAF Zonal meeting also served as a platform for member nations to share insights, experiences, and best practices, promoting greater collaboration and unity within the zone.
The President encouraged open dialogue and cooperation among the member associations, with the aim of collectively advancing the region’s footballing standards.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe during the CAF Extraordinary General Assembly 2025 zonal meeting WAFU A in Cairo, Egypt on 10 March 2025 ©Weam Mostafa/BackpagePix
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