Extreme Sports CEO, Hussein Mohammed, has pointed out that poor infrastructure and bad governance in most African football federations have had an impact on the sport in the continent depriving it of both growth and wealth in the vast football economy.
Mohammed said this on Thursday during the second edition of the Africa Football Business Summit which is organized by the Football Foundation of Africa and was held in Nairobi.
“From poor infrastructure, inconsistent development strategies and bad governance, most African federations are struggling to reap the benefits of an ever-growing global football economy,” he said.
“At the heart of these challenges, our struggle to decisively deal with corruption, blatant theft and impunity in the football management remains the biggest challenge.”
The two-day summit which will run from September 14 to 15 was first launched in 2022.
It was born of the need for Africa to invest in knowledge creation and dissemination systems as well as progressive leadership to transform the continent’s football- as per the summit agenda.
The first edition in 2022 brought together over 120 delegates from more than 10 countries with over 20 speakers, 15 insightful interviews, panel discussions and presentations, and a workshop.
This year’s event will be graced by some prominent people including former Chelsea manager Avram Grant. The Israeli tactician currently manages the Zambian national team.
Mohammed further cited that football should be prioritized from the grass roots as his foundation has done through the Super 8 league.
“The Africa Football Business Summit provides a crucial platform for discussions that can shape the future of African football. We must prioritize grassroots development, engage all stakeholders, and foster good governance to ensure meaningful progress,” he concluded.
“Extreme Sports has been dedicated to grassroots football through the Extreme Super 8 league. This commitment has empowered youth, reduced crime, and provided livelihoods to families. Grassroots football, the heart of Extreme Sports, aligns perfectly with the Football Foundation for Africa's mission.”
The CEO indicated that football in Africa was more than just a mare sport as it is also a cultural phenomenon that unites the continent.
“Football in Africa is more than a sport. It is a cultural phenomenon that unites communities and drives socio-economic development. The summit brings together industry experts, stakeholders, and football enthusiasts to discuss the game's immense potential,” he added.
He concluded by calling on Fifa to improve its treatment of African football associations and for all stakeholders to put up a united front to further the continent's football.
“In conclusion, the Africa Football Business Summit is a vital platform for discussions that can shape the future of African football. We must prioritize grassroots development, engage all stakeholders, and foster good governance to ensure meaningful progress,” he concluded.
“The issues of corruption, mismanagement, and FIFA's treatment of African football associations cannot be ignored any longer. It's time for change, and it begins with a united effort from all stakeholders in African football.”