Confederation of African Football (CAF)

Structure and membership

CAF is made up of the national football associations of African countries. Its governance framework typically includes a congress of member associations, an executive committee, and a general secretariat that manages daily operations. CAF also works alongside regional unions — such as CECAFA, COSAFA and WAFU — that run competitions and development programs at subregional level.

Major competitions

One of CAF's primary functions is organizing competitions for national teams and clubs. Major tournaments include:

• Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) — the flagship senior national team championship.
• CAF Champions League — the top annual club competition for league champions and high-placed clubs.
• CAF Confederation Cup — the secondary club tournament, with a Super Cup contested between the two winners.
• African Nations Championship (CHAN) — for players who play in their national domestic leagues, plus age-restricted youth tournaments and World Cup qualifying organized in coordination with FIFA.

These events shape the continental football calendar and provide pathways for African teams and players to gain international exposure.

History and development

CAF was established in the mid-20th century to provide an African forum for football administration and competition. Over the decades it has expanded its membership and professionalized competition management, marketing and refereeing standards. CAF's activities include coach education, youth development, infrastructure support and programs aimed at improving governance and commercial viability across member associations.

Roles, impact and notable facts

Beyond staging tournaments, CAF sets disciplinary and regulatory policies, coordinates refereeing and anti-doping measures within its jurisdiction, and represents African football interests at FIFA meetings. Its competitions have helped raise the profile of African clubs and national teams internationally, while regional partnerships support grassroots growth, talent identification and sports infrastructure projects across the continent.

CAF remains an influential body in world football, balancing sporting, commercial and development goals as it advances the game across diverse countries and cultures in Africa.