Addis Ababa, April 28, 2025 (ENA) -- Ethiopia’s Police Force is not only a guardian of law and order; it is also a symbol of excellence in sports, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh said. The 5th edition of the East Africa Police Chiefs Cooperation Organization (EAPCCO) Games is underway in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Speaking at the opening ceremony, the deputy prime minister said more than a century ago, Ethiopia became a pioneer for the continent by establishing one of Africa’s first modern police institutions. “Today, we proudly opened the 5th Edition of the EAPCCO Games, in Addis Ababa marking the 116th anniversary of the founding of the Ethiopian Police,” he said. Over the past seven years, through bold reforms, the Ethiopian Federal Police has been reborn stronger, more independent, and more efficient, the deputy prime minster added. It stands today as a proud institution, rooted in history and built for the future. According to the deputy prime minister, “Ethiopia’s police force is not only a guardian of law and order — it is also a symbol of excellence in sports.’’ Through the Omedla Sport Club, it has produced athletes who have raised our flag high on the world stage, reminded us that discipline, teamwork, and perseverance know no boundaries, Temesgen noted. The deputy prime minister added “This competition is about more than just sports. It’s about building trust. It’s about forging friendships. It’s about working together, side by side, toward a common purpose.” Ethiopian Federal Police (EFP) Commissioner General Demelash Gebremichael extended a warm welcome to delegations from Djibouti, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, South Sudan, and Uganda.   “As we commemorate the 116 National Police Day on May 4, we take pride in hosting the 5th EAPCCO Games in Ethiopia, reaffirming our commitment to regional cooperation,” the commissioner general stated. This game is not solely concentrated on winning or losing, he said, adding it is fundamentally aimed at promoting peace and security among member states of the EAPCCO. The commissioner general also said “We seek foster collaboration through the medium of sports. Moreover, this sport event offers a platform of participants to showcase their talents, exchange experiences and build strong relationships.” As the police institutions play a pivotal role in preparing athletes for prestigious occasions such as the Olympics and other international contests. EAPCCO Games would be instrumental in identifying promising athletes to represent their respective countries. The competition, which runs until May 4, features over 400 athletes from member states, competing across six sports disciplines.

Addis Ababa, April 27, 2025 (ENA)—Ethiopia’s Tigist Assefa smashed the women-only world record by 26 seconds at the TCS London Marathon, running 2:15:50* to win the World Athletics Platinum Label road race on Sunday (27). The Olympic silver medallist kicked away from Kenya’s Joyciline Jepkosgei to clinch her first London Marathon win after finishing second to Peres Jepchirchir last year. Jepchirchir’s winning mark of 2:16:16 a year ago had also been a women-only world record and that is the mark Assefa improved, finishing strongly to win by almost three minutes ahead of Jepkosgei (2:18:43). Olympic champion Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands was third (2:18:59). Given the strength of the field, the women-only world record was always the target. With that in mind, the lead group of Jepkosgei, Assefa, Hassan and Megertu Alemu followed the pacemakers through 5km in a blistering 15:34 – not only inside the targeted 2:15 pace, but on sub-2:12 rhythm. The quartet maintained that pace through 10km, hitting that mark in 31:16. Assefa and Jepchirchir broke away by the halfway point, which they passed in 1:06:40, 10 seconds ahead of Hassan. The leading pair continued to move away from the rest of the field and after 35km was reached in 1:52:12, Assefa made a break. A 5:03 24th mile made the difference and by 40km Assefa was 56 seconds ahead. She finished hard to stride over the finish line in 2:15:50 – the third-fastest marathon of her career behind the 2:11:53 she ran to win in Berlin in 2023, a mark that at the time was a world record for a women’s marathon in a mixed race, and her 2:15:37 also from Berlin in 2022. A short while later, the men’s race was won by Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe in 2:02:27 – the second-fastest ever London Marathon time. Uganda’s world half marathon record-holder Jacob Kiplimo was second on his marathon debut, clocking 2:03:37.

Addis Ababa, April 24, 2025 (ENA) -- The general assembly of the African Taekuando has re-elected Ide Issaka as president, and Ethiopian, Nigerian as well as Moroccan vice presidents to run the union for the next four years today. In its assembly held in Addis Ababa, Niger's Ide Issaka was re-elected as president, and the Ethiopian Dawit Asfaw, Nigerian Jonathan Nnaji and Mohammed Mouloud Elgairaa of Morrocco as vice presidents of the union. The African Taekuando Union President Ide Issaka pledged on the occasion to transform Taekuando across Africa through training and improving opportunities for African young generation.   “What we wish to do is work hard to develop Taekuando allover Africa,” the president said. Culture and Sport State Minister, Mekiyou Mohammed, stated that Taekuando has become more than sport. It is a cultural movement that speaks to the aspiration of young people. According to him, Taekuando has become a transformative force in many corners of Africa, offering young people not just structure and purpose but also a global stage on which to stand and shine. He added that Ethiopia, through its sport-tourism strategy and policy support for international events, reaffirms its belief in sport as a vital driver of unity, economic opportunity and cultural diplomacy.

Addis Ababa, March 31, 2025 (ENA) -- A contract agreement for the completion of the Adey Ababa International Stadium Phase II Lot 2 remaining works was signed today between Ethiopia's Ministry of Culture and Sports and China Communications Construction Company LTD (CCCC). Minister of Culture and Sports, Shewit Shanka, and Xin Bin, Deputy General Manager of CCCC has signed the contract today in Addis Ababa for the construction of the remaining works of Adey Abeba stadium. Minister Shewit, during her address, highlighted the progress made in sports development over the past seven years. She emphasized that the contract agreement is a crucial step towards finalizing the Adey Abeba International Stadium project. "Through the diplomatic efforts of the Prime Minister, we secured 57 million USD from the Abu Dhabi government seven years ago, which has enabled significant advancement in Phase II Lot 1 construction," Shewit stated. The contract, valued nearly at 139 million USD, will facilitate the continuation of construction for Phase II Lots 2 and 3. Upon completion, the stadium is designed to meet international standards set by CAF and FIFA, allowing it to host major international sporting events. " This agreement marks a significant victory for the development of sports in Ethiopia," Minister Shewit added. Xin Bin, Deputy General Manager of CCCC, expressed his company's commitment to delivering the project on schedule. "With over 20 years of experience in Ethiopia, we recognize the importance of this world-class project. We pledge to utilize our resources and expertise to ensure its timely completion," he said. General Manager of MH Engineering and advisor of the project, Mesele Haile, provided detailed insights into the project's scope. He detailed the scope of work left to complete, including; finishing work left over from phase 1, and the very complex roof construction, which carries a large percentage of the current budget. The stadium's total ground area, and facility specifications will enable it to comply with world athletic standards. It is expected that the stadium will be completed within two years. According to him, the stadium is a world class venue that meets any standards including FIFA,CAF and World Athletics. The project includes Phase 2, Lots 2 and 3, encompassing FIFA-grade roofing, cutting-edge technology installations, and premium spectator seating. The completed stadium will feature 1,200 restrooms, 800 handwashing stations, comprehensive field work, and advanced roofing and technology systems. The completion of the Adey Ababa International Stadium is expected to create a prominent venue for sports and entertainment within Ethiopia, contributing significantly to the nation's sporting landscape.

Addis Ababa, March 27, 2025 (ENA)—Botswanan Minister of Sport and Arts Jacob Kelebeng expressed his delight over Botswana's having been awarded the hosting rights for the 2026 World Athletics Relays. Global athletics body - World Athletics- has confirmed that the African nation—Botswana will host the 2026 World Athletics Relays, scheduled to take place on 2-3 May 2026. "We have done it," Kelebeng wrote on his social media account, congratulating the Botswana Athletics Association (BAA) for the milestone. This will be the first time for Botswana to host a senior world event in any sport and the first time the World Athletics relays to be hosted in Africa. The good news was announced by World Athletics president Sebastian Coe earlier Tuesday at the end of the two-day council meeting in Nanjing, China. The event is scheduled to be hosted in Gaborone, capital of Botswana, on May 2 to May 3, according to the World Athletics press release. The hosting of the world event marks a big milestone in Botswana's ascendance to the top in athletics and coincides with the country's 60th Independence celebrations in 2026. ​​​​Botswana's men 4x400m relay team is a force to reckon in the event. They are the reigning world relays champions having won gold at the 2024 event held in the Bahamas before wrapping up their season with an Olympic silver medal. The team has three world relay medals including a bronze, a silver and gold. Moreover, the Botswana team has already started preparations to defend their gold at the upcoming 2025 World Athletics Relays to be held in Guangzhou, China in May this year. Reigning Olympic 200m champion Letsile Tebogo is expected to be remain part of the team.  

Addis Ababa, March 22, 2025 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s Freweyni Hailu stormed to victory in the women 3000m race at the ongoing World Indoor Championships on Saturday 22, 2025 at the Nanjing Sports Training Centre in Nanjing, China. The 24 year-old rising star wrote her name in the history books as she became the first Ethiopian to win three medals in three different disciplines, which includes an 800m silver from 2022 and a 1500m gold two years later in Glasgow. Freweyni also adds another title at World Athletics Indoor Championships in Nanjing, showcasing thrilling competition. She clocked an impressive time of 8:37.21, a feat that underscores her incredible talent and determination on the track. Freweyni’s first world indoor medal came in 2022 when she claimed 800m silver. She won 1500m gold in Glasgow two years later and now has a 3000m crown to add to her set. This latest victory returns Ethiopia to winning ways in the discipline after USA’s Elle St. Pierre paused the nation’s winning streak in the event last year, with athletes from Ethiopia having won 10 of the last 12 titles on offer. Freweyni had already shown her intent by arriving to the WIC Nanjing 25 as the fastest woman in the world over the 3000m, having set a world lead and personal best of 8:19.98 in Lievin where she beat three-time global champion Gudaf Tsegay to move to third on the world indoor all-time list. Competing at Nanjing’s Cube, she bided her time as the race took off, remaining behind the rest of the field while Olympic 1500m silver medallist Hull took the opposite position, making her way to the front of the pack. “To win this event, I prepared myself strongly, and I feel very happy that I won the race,” said Freweyni. “I was sick at home just before coming to Nanjing, so I stayed at the back to conserve myself before making my push. I'm healthy now, and I came here to win. “Last year I won the 1500m, now I've won the 3000m, and I'm so happy about that. I tried my best, and God helped me with the rest. I don't know how I will celebrate – my happiness is beyond me.” ​​​​​​​

Addis Ababa January 5|2025 (ENA)—Ethiopia's Dawit Wolde and Ruti Aga claimed the respective men's and women's titles, both with new course records, at the 2025 Xiamen Marathon on Sunday. Dawit clocked a winning time of two hours, six minutes and six seconds, shattering the previous record of 2:06:19 set by Kenya's Moses Cheruiyot Mosop in 2015. Tebello Ramakongoana of Lesotho took silver, 12 seconds back, while another Ethiopian runner Asefa Boki Kebebe secured bronze in 2:06:32. "The course is amazing and nice. We are lucky to have [competed in the Xiamen Marathon] this season and the weather is nice. I like this race because the atmosphere is good and it is well organized. I will come back," said Wolde. Ruti Aga captured the women's title with 2:18:46, breaking the former course record of 2:19:52 set by her compatriot Mare Dibaba Hurrsa in 2015. Gutemi Shone and Fikrte Wereta, also from Ethiopia, finished second and third respectively.   The Xiamen Marathon gained the World Athletics Elite Platinum Label in 2021. This year's event has attracted 35,000 contestants from 46 countries and regions, it was indicated. Xiamen International Marathon 2025 is an annual marathon race hosted by Xiamen Municipal Government in the coastal city of Xiamen in Fujian province, China.

Addis Ababa December 22/2024 (ENA)—Sileshi Sihin, a renowned figure in Ethiopian athletics, has been elected the president of the Ethiopian Athletics Federation. Following the 28th regular General Assembly of the Ethiopian Athletics Federation, athlete Sileshi was elected as a president of the federation for the next four years, succeeding another legendary athlete Derartu Tulu. A legendary athlete, Sileshi Sihin has earned numerous medals representing his country throughout his career. Sileshi a renowned former long-distance runner and Olympic silver medalist, his appointment marks a new era for Ethiopian athletics, as an athlete with firsthand experience steps into leadership to guide the nation’s sporting future.

Addis Ababa December 15/2024 (ENA—Ethiopia’s Nibret Melak was victorious at the Bangsaen21 Half Marathon, a World Athletics Platinum Label road race, in Chon Buri in Thailand today. In the men’s race, eight runners were tightly grouped as they reached the 10km mark in 30:41, with Nibret positioned towards the back of the pack. As the pace quickened, the lead group dwindled to four by the 15km point, where Nibret battled alongside Alexander Mutiso Munyao, Geoffrey Toroitich, and Leul Gebresilase, passing through in 45:07. In the final stretch, Toroitich initiated a break, but Nibret surged ahead, creating a decisive gap to secure victory by two seconds over his competitors. Battling humid conditions with a midnight start, he stayed with the breakaway and sealed his triumph with an unstoppable kick, crossing the line in 1:02:33.

Addis Ababa December 2/2024 (ENA) President Taye Atske Selassie has congratulated Ethiopian athletes Tamirat Tola and Sembo Alemayehu, for being winners of Male Out-of-Stadium Athlete of the Year and Women’s Rising Star award at the World Athletics Awards 2024 in Monaco. “You have done it on the giant shoulders of our legends and your success is an inspiration to our future young athletes,” the President underscored. Tamirat, who dominated the men’s marathon in Paris, has been named Male Out-of-Stadium Athlete of the Year at the World Athletics Awards 2024 in Monaco.   Similarly, athlete Sembo, who broke the record to win the women’s steeplechase champion at the World U20 title in Lima, won the Women’s Rising Star award, it was learned.  

Addis Ababa November 17/2024 (ENA) Global participants of the 24th Great Ethiopian Run International were captivated by Addis Ababa's transformative infrastructure and the iconic race experience. The 24th edition of Great Ethiopian Run International 10 Kilo meters road race held today in Addis Ababa with the participation of more than 50,000 people. This year's event held under the theme "For Every Child, Nutrition," has also attracted renowned athletes and other visitors from across the world. Conor Twomey from the USA, a participant in the 24th Great Ethiopian Run, has been exploring Ethiopia this week, visiting not only Addis Ababa but also various regions of the country. "It's my first time in Eastern Africa," Twomey expressed his excitement, "and I couldn't be prouder to see these Ethiopian people come out in force for such a grand event." “What a beautiful country, what a beautiful city! I’ve had the most amazing day participating in such a grand street running event,” he admired. For anyone who loves running, there’s a secret ground called Entoto Natural Park, located at 7,700 feet of altitude, just a few minutes away from the city, Twomey underscored. “We had the chance to run amongst the eucalyptus trees yesterday. What an absolute pleasure. This is a special place, a special city, and a special people,” he said encouraging everyone to consider joining the Great Ethiopian Run next year. Conor Twomey added that the infrastructure development in the capital is incredible. Twomey further witnessed, "I've traveled in other parts of Africa. And here, it is really impressive to see how every single street is being renovated. In Addis Ababa, there's great investment, a great sense of hope, and beautiful people and a beautiful country." Liam O'Brien from Ireland, another participant, said he was taking part in the annual Great Ethiopian Run International for the first time.   He expressed his excitement for participating in the annual 24th Great Ethiopian Run, a great experience. "Unlike today, I've never taken part in such a large and fun race. The atmosphere was incredible. The people are great. I really enjoyed it today," O'Brien expressed his excitement, commending Ethiopia for organizing such a beautiful grand sports carnival. "This makes Ethiopia proud," he added. Even though he has experience running in the New York Marathon, Berlin Marathon, and Chicago Marathon, he has never run in as big a crowd as Great Ethiopian Run. For him, it was a really unique experience to see all sorts of people, including children and young people, in such a great atmosphere. Stephen Farshing, another foreign participant, said this is his third time participating in the run and that it's beautiful.   He further added, "It's so nice to see all the people out here, the weather is very nice, and everyone's just having a good time, and so we had a good time." For him, it's a good time to bring everyone together, to see everyone in the city become one, run together, and encourage each other. It's just a very good spirit of brotherhood. Ethiopia's famous long-distance runner, Haile Gebrselassie founded the race in 2000. To commemorate the 50th anniversary of Lucy's discovery, 50,000 people participated in this year's Great Ethiopian Run international 10Km, which is organized in partnership with Ethiopia's Ministry of Tourism. Lucy is one of the oldest archeological remains of human species of 3.2 million years old. Its remains was discovered in Ethiopia 50 years ago. Every year, the Great Ethiopian Run takes place on the streets of Addis Ababa, which is currently evolving in appearance as a result of the rapid expansion of corridor development.  

Addis Ababa November 17/2024 (ENA)The 24th edition of Great Ethiopian Run International 10 Kilo meters road race held today in Addis Ababa with the participation of more than 50,000 people. This year's event, held under the theme "For Every Child, Nutrition," has attracted renowned athletes from across the world. President Taye Atske Selassie, Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie, Tourism Minister Selamawit Kasa, Health Minister Mekades Daba, and other guests were present at the opening of the race. The event ranks as one of the world’s best 10km road that has been inspiring a number of Ethiopian athletes to become successful in their sports endeavors. The founder of this prestigious international event, athlete Haile Gebrselassie, said that the this race is the starting point for the success of famous athletes. As it attracts several domestic and foreign athletes as well as the diplomatic community, the Great Ethiopian Run has also been playing key role in building Ethiopia’s image and promote the country’s tourism besides its contribution to the advancement of athletics, he added. To commemorate the 50th anniversary of Lucy's discovery, 50,000 people participated in this year's Great Ethiopian Run international 10Km, which is organized in partnership with Ethiopia's Ministry of Tourism. Lucy is one of the oldest archeological remains of human species of 3.2 million years old. Its remains was discovered in Ethiopia 50 years ago. Every year, the Great Ethiopian Run takes place on the streets of Addis Ababa, which is currently evolving in appearance as a result of the rapid expansion of corridor development. Ethiopia's famous long-distance runner, Haile Gebrselassie founded the race in 2000.  

Addis Ababa November 15/2024 (ENA)-Ethiopia's Ministry of Tourism announced that the Sofi Malt Great Ethiopian Run International will enhance Ethiopia’s image and promote its tourism attractions. This year the Great Ethiopian Run international 10Km will be held for the 24th times under the theme "For Every Child, Nutrition,” on the coming Sunday in Addis Ababa. In press conference today, Minister of Tourism Selamawit Kassa shared that the Great Run will significantly contribute to tourism and development efforts in Addis Ababa. She highlighted that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the discovery of Lucy, and 50,000 participants are expected to join the race. This event will help elevate Ethiopia’s tourism development on the global stage.   Haile Gebrselassie, founder of the Great Run, stated that the Sofi Malt Great Ethiopian Run International is one of the world’s most recognized races. He urged local residents to show hospitality to international runners and to run with caution. The Sofi Malt Great Ethiopian Run International 10km offers a unique experience for runners of all levels. While attracting elite athletes, its primary goal is to encourage mass participation from local residents. The event also ranks as one of the world’s best 10km road races for international participants. This year the Great Ethiopian Run international 10Km will be held for the 24th times bringing together runners from across the world, uniting hearts and celebrating unity in diversity.

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.”    

Addis Ababa October 22/2024 (ENA)-Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has announced that Ethiopia, which is the founder of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), is strongly desirous to host the 2029 African Cup of Nations. Speaking during a dinner reception held at the National Palace in honor of the leaders and participants of the CAF General Assembly, he emphasized the country's commitment to hosting the prestigious tournament.   The Prime Minister warmly welcomed the delegates to Ethiopia, a nation known as the Land of Origin for humanity. He highlighted Ethiopia's remarkable role in the struggle for African independence, its contributions to the Pan-African movement, and its consistent participation in global platforms such as the League of Nations and the United Nations. Ethiopia, he said, has always been a pillar of African unity and cooperation. Prime Minister Abiy also noted that Ethiopia is one of the founding nations of African football and remains committed to the development of the sport. He reaffirmed the country’s dedication to fostering growth in this sector and ensuring that the sport continues to thrive on a solid foundation. Ethiopia, which has previously hosted major international tournaments, has expressed a strong desire to host the 2029 Africa Cup of Nations. Prime Minister Abiy formally requested the opportunity, stating, "Ethiopia proudly stands as a symbol of African unity, which is why I am asking for the 37th Africa Cup of Nations to be held in Ethiopia in 2029." He further stressed that Ethiopia is the ideal host for the tournament, with a strong tradition of hospitality and excellent infrastructure to accommodate visitors.   The country is experiencing significant economic growth, recording 8.1 percent GDP growth in the previous fiscal year, and is projected to achieve 8.4 percent growth in the coming year. Prime Minister Abiy also underscored Ethiopia's ongoing efforts to modernize its cities and construct state-of-the-art infrastructure, including new stadiums and the renovation of existing facilities. This, he said, is part of a broader plan to ensure that the country is fully prepared to host the Africa Cup of Nations in 2029. In addition to the football matches, visitors will have the opportunity to explore Ethiopia’s rich history, deep cultural heritage, and breathtaking landscapes. The Prime Minister remarked that beyond the sport itself, football has the power to unite people from across the world, and Ethiopia is ready to showcase its unique position in football and athletics.      

Addis Ababa October 22/2024 (ENA)-The Confederation of African Football (CAF) president, Patrice Tlhopane Motsepe, expressed excitement about Ethiopia's plan to submit a proposal to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2029 (AFCON 2029). Briefing media today, the president expressed appreciation for the government and people of Ethiopia for their warm and compassionate hospitality with the sense of most loving. "Ethiopia is the home for all of us. Every time I get off the airplane, when I'm Ethiopia and people say, Welcome to Ethiopia, I said, don't say welcome to Ethiopia. Say welcome home and the reception is always incredibly warm.” He noted that this country has a proud football history and expressed great honor in hosting the 46th CAF Ordinary General Assembly in one of the most beautiful countries and cities—not just in Africa, but in the world. "We are very excited about the intention of Ethiopia to submit proposal to host the AFCON 2029," he added. Noting that the future of Ethiopian football looks bright, he expressed best wishes for Ethiopia's bid to host AFCON 2029. He encouraged the government of Ethiopia and the Football Federation to work closely together to make timely decisions regarding Ethiopia's proposal submission. On other hand, the President said, the success of football is what happens in Ethiopia, what happens in every country in Africa. We were making success in some countries. In others, we are not making the success that we'd like too. I believe Ethiopia is fortunate to have a Prime Minister, like Abiy Ahmed, who loves football and is a committed and action-oriented leader. Moreover, the president pointed out that CAF aims to make African football amongst the best in the world. Earlier today, at the opening of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) 46th Ordinary General Assembly in Ethiopia, President Taye Atske Silassie requested CAF to endorse Ethiopia's bid to host the 2029 Africa Cup of Nations.

Addis Ababa October 22/2024 (ENA) President of FIFA Giovanni Vincenzo Infantino has encouraged African countries to further invest and unleash the potential of the continent’s young football players. In his opening remarks at the 46th Ordinary General Assembly of CAF being held in Addis Ababa, FIFA President indicated that African football has evolved and become stronger. Infantine stressed the need for investing in youth and creating opportunities, not just in one or two parts of the world, but all over the world. To this effect, the president urged African nations to reinforce investments in youth talents. “I encourage all of you to continue investing in youth football. Because those kids, those girls and boys who will play these youth competitions, these Youth World Cups under 17, will be the stars of tomorrow. And they will make sure that sooner rather than later, an African country can win the World Cup as well,” he hoped. Mentioning Morocco is set to host the FIFA World Cup in 2030 that would make the country as the second ever African nation to host the World Cup, Infantine noted that we are all looking forward to Morocco. South Africa was the first African country which hosted the FIFA World Cup in 2010, it was indicated. Speaking on FIFA’s investment that has been focusing on five football areas, the president pointed out the first one is football development that has been increasing from 250,000 USD to 2 million USD annually. “This money is invested by all of you in football development, and you can see that because you know it when you play now the qualifiers of the AFCON or of the World Cup, there is no easy game anymore. Everyone is getting stronger.” Healso mentioned another investment in the talent development scheme as part of football development. “We've invested in refereeing development as part of these investments. And we can see the results at African level, but also of the African teams at global level,” he elaborated. The other area is national team football, the president said and for the first time there will be nine or 10 African countries participating in the 2026 World Cup 2026 for the first time. We doubled the number of African countries participating in the World Cup and this is boosting, obviously, football investment and football development all over Africa, he said.              

Addis Ababa, October 22/2024 (ENA) Ethiopia's President Taye Atske Selassie expressed the government's strong support for the crucial role of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in advancing the continent's aspirations. Speaking at the 46th Ordinary General Assembly of CAF, the President emphasized that football is central to Africa's identity and heritage.   He noted that in today's world, sports serve as a cornerstone for uniting the continent, transcending boundaries and differences. This vision aligns with the African Union's Agenda 2063, which seeks a unified Africa with a robust cultural identity and shared values. President Taye reaffirmed Ethiopia's commitment to fostering a legacy that honors the past while paving the way for future successes. He also referenced FIFA President Gianni Infantino's emphasis on the importance of nurturing young talent and leveraging Africa's collective strengths to elevate the sport on the global stage. Patrice Motsepe, President of CAF, expressed gratitude for Ethiopia's role in hosting the assembly.   He emphasized that football's success in Africa is tied to the achievements of all 54 countries. The president expressed pride in witnessing the passion and dedication of African nations for sport during his visits at various times.    

Addis Ababa, October 22/2024 (ENA) President Taye Atske Selassie requested CAF to endorse Ethiopia's submission of a bid to host the prestigious tournament 2029 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The Confederation of African Football (CAF) 46th Ordinary General Assembly kicked off today in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.   In his keynote address to the assembly, Taye said Ethiopia is the second most populous nation in Africa with 70 percent of its population under the age of 30 years. Sport makes a significant part of Ethiopia’s national plan for harnessing its demographic dividend, the President underscored. According to Taye, his country is enormously investing in the sport infrastructure for multidimensional benefits. “We are investing heavily in sports education and in construction of infrastructure, including new stadiums and renovation of the existing ones,” he pointed out. Recall that Ethiopia has submitted its application to host the Africa Cup of Nations and the country is carrying out preparatory activities. When given the opportunity to host the prestigious Africa Cup of Nations, the President revealed that we look forward to creating exceptional experiences for teams, fans and the rest of the sports family and all other stakeholders. Accordingly, he stated that: “I take this opportunity to request CAF to endorse Ethiopia's bill to host this prestigious tournament.” Noting that Ethiopia is a country with millions of passionate fans to sport, Taye noted that the country has played the foundational role in the development of African football. Moreover, he expressed Ethiopia’s eagerness to showcase its capabilities and contribute to the continued growth of the sport. The President recalled that Ethiopia hosted AFCON almost half a century ago, adding that I believe many of you are not born. President of Ethiopian Football Federation, Esayas Jira said on his part Ethiopia is a proud football nation with a rich history that includes hosting the African Cup of Nations three times and lifting the trophy 1962. “As we celebrate 62 years since that glorious and the trophy, I stand before you today to express our unwavering ambition to host African 2029 on our historic land.” Esayas also reaffirmed the full commitment of the Ethiopian government to host the tournament, with about 11 stadiums under construction across the country. “This is a clear indication of Ethiopia's dedication to bring the peanut of African football back to its roots as a founding member of CAF, our people deserve to once again, witness and experience the electric atmosphere of AFCON,” he stated.      

Addis Ababa, October 22/2024 (ENA)The 46th Ordinary General Assembly of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) kicked off today in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The general assembly was officially opened in the presence of Ethiopia’s President Taye Atske Selassie, CAF President Patrice Motsepe, President of FIFA Giovanni Vincenzo Infantino and FIFA Secretary General Matthias Grafström. It has also brought together the presidents of CAF member countries' football federations and regional football associations, as well as other stakeholders of the sport. The assembly is expected to pass various decisions by discussing African football issues.