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.    

Addis Ababa October 21/2024 (ENA) President of FIFA Giovanni Vincenzo Infantino landed in Addis Ababa this evening to participate in the 46th Ordinary General Assembly of the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Upon his arrival at Bole International Airport, Infantino was greeted by Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, Gedion Timothewos, CAF President Patrice Motsepe and Ethiopian Football Federation President Esayas Jira, along with other high-ranking officials.   The 46th Ordinary General Assembly of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) is due to kick off tomorrow, October 22, 2024.  

Addis Ababa October 21/2024 (ENA)Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed took part in the Confederation of African Football (CAF) friendly football match at Addis Ababa stadium this afternoon. Former African football legends and former Ethiopian national football team are participating in the competition organized as part of the 46th Ordinary General Assembly CAF. Prime Minister Abiy has been encouraging the country’s sports sector by expanding vital facilities to sporting activities.   In Addis Ababa, in particular, a large number of conventional sports facilities have been constructed for local use. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed with the President of CAF visited currently nearing completion Adey Ababa stadium in Addis Ababa today. Recall the premier announced last June 2024 that Ethiopia has submitted its application to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the country is carrying out preparatory activities. Former Nigerian footballers known for playing in the English Premier League and various European clubs including former football players, Daniel Amokachi and Nwankwo Kanu, have been elected as Ethiopian ambassadors and have begun efforts to get Ethiopia's request acceptable. The 46th Ordinary General Assembly of CAF is scheduled to take place tomorrow in Addis Ababa.  

Addis Ababa October 21/2024 (ENA)-Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed with President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Patrice Motsepe, visited the under-construction Adey Ababa stadium in Addis Ababa today. Culture and Sport Minister, Shewit Shanka, Ethiopian Football Federation President, Isayas Jira, among other official also attended the visit. Recall Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced last June 2024 that Ethiopia has submitted its application to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the country is carrying out preparatory activities. Accordingly, Ethiopia has thrown its hat into the ring to host the prestigious Africa Cup of Nations, it was learned. The Prime Minister also mentioned that former Nigerian footballers known for playing in the English Premier League and various European clubs including former football players, Daniel Amokachi and Nwankwo Kanu, have been elected as Ethiopian ambassadors and have begun efforts to get Ethiopia's request acceptable. The 46th Ordinary General Assembly of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) is going to kick off tomorrow, 22nd October 2024.    

Addis Ababa October 21/2024 (ENA)-Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed met today with Patrice Motsepe, President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), along with members of the executive committee. The Premier shared on his social media channel that: “I received at my office this morning Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe and members of the executive committee ahead of the 46th CAF Ordinary General Assembly that Ethiopia is hosting.”   The Prime Minister and Motsepe have visited the Adey Abeba stadium, currently nearing completion. Ethiopia stands ready to support a successful outcome of the meetings, Abiy reaffirmed.  

Addis Ababa October 21/2024 (ENA)-Lars Nils Mattias Grafström, Secretary-General of FIFA, along with Souleiman Waberi, the third Vice President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), arrived in Addis Ababa this morning to attend the 46th CAF Ordinary General Assembly. Upon their arrival at Bole International Airport, they were warmly welcomed by Huria Ali, the State Minister of Women and Social Affairs, the President of Ethiopian Football Federation, Esayas Jira and Melaku Bedada, Director General of Protocol Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The 4th Ordinary General Assembly of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) is due to kick off tomorrow (October 22, 2024). As Ethiopia is gearing up to host the 46th CAF Ordinary General Assembly in Addis Ababa on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, it is welcoming delegates from all over Africa and beyond. This year’s assembly marks Ethiopia’s second opportunity to host the CAF Congress, having previously done so in 2017. The general assembly set to bring together officials from CAF Member Associations, zonal unions, and global football figures, Ethiopia’s preparations reflect its readiness to be at the centre of African football discussions.

Addis Ababa October 20/2024 (ENA)- President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Patrice Tlhopane Motsepe, has arrived in Addis Ababa to participate in the 46th Ordinary Assembly of CAF. Upon his arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, Motsepe was welcomed by Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos, Minister of Culture and Sports, Shewit Shanka, along with other senior government officials.   As Ethiopia gets ready to host the 46th CAF Ordinary General Assembly in Addis Ababa on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, it is welcoming delegates from all over Africa and beyond. This year’s assembly marks Ethiopia’s second opportunity to host the CAF Congress, having previously done so in 2017. With the event set to bring together officials from CAF Member Associations, zonal unions, and global football figures, Ethiopia’s preparations reflect its readiness to be at the centre of African football discussions. Ethiopia's preparations demonstrate its willingness to be at the forefront of discussion about African football, as the event is expected to bring together representatives from CAF Member Associations, zonal unions, and prominent international football leaders. Ethiopia, known for its rich cultural heritage and love for sports, has always been a key player in the development of football on the continent. The nation has a proud history of hosting significant sporting events and visitors to the capital, Addis Ababa, can expect to experience warm hospitality, historical landmarks, and a city that is a melting pot of African unity.

Addis Ababa October 13/2024 (ENA)-The construction of the state-of-the-art circus show and training center underway in Addis Ababa at Entoto Park is being accelerated, Minister of Culture and Sport Shewit Shanka said. The Minister and other officials of the Ministry visited the circus center which is being built by Sosina Wogayehu, a well-known performer with Circus Ethiopia. The center has been under construction for the past two years on an area of ​​16,400 square meters in Entoto Park, and it is expected to be completed and operational within the next one year. During the occasion, the minister noted that the center will serve as a circus show and training center at the continental level which will have an immense contribution for the growth of art and tourism sector as well. Reiterating that the support of the government will be reinforced to complete the center with the needed speed and quality, Shewit praised Sosina Wogayehu for investing in arts development. The minister also stressed the need to reinforce the participation of investors in the arts and sport sectors. The owner of the circus center Sosina Wogayehu said for her part that the center is being built with the objective of promoting the art of circus in Ethiopia. The center is also being built with the aim to make Ethiopia a destination center for circus arts in Africa, she said, adding it includes various rooms including circus show, circus art and dance training, museum, youth hostel and restaurant.  

Addis Ababa, September 16/2024 (ENA) The Executive Committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced that the upcoming CAF General Assembly will be held in Addis Ababa. The assembly was initially scheduled to be held in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. However, after it was announced that the country could not host the event, CAF approved Ethiopia's request to host the assembly. Accordingly, the assembly is now set to take place in Addis Ababa in October, according to information obtained from the Ethiopian Football Federation.  

Addis Ababa, August 24/2024 (ENA) As Ethiopia has set plan to host the 37th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2029, efforts are underway to ensure that the stadiums meet CAF standards, Culture and Sport Minister Shewit Shanka said. A foundation stone was laid today to build a multi-purpose stadium in Arba Minch city, South Ethiopia regional state.   Recall that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced that Ethiopia submitted application to host AFCON and the country is carrying out preparatory activities. The minister elaborated that preparation is underway based on the initiative given by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for Ethiopia to host the 37th AFCON by 2029. Having laid the cornerstone along with federal and regional authorities, preparatory activities will be carried out to ensure that stadiums meet the standards set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Shewit noted. To this end, efforts will be made to ensure that the multi-purpose stadium to be constructed in Arba Minch City meets the required standards and complete it on schedule, according to the minister. Moreover, Shewit elaborated that the contribution of the stadium to the country's prosperity will be crucial by hosting various national, continental and international events and attracting sports tourism and stimulating business activity. The foundation stone for the construction of the multi-purpose stadium has an important role in revitalizing the development of sports in the region, she said. Shewit pledged that her ministry will provide the necessary support so that the construction of the stadium will be completed on schedule.  

Addis Ababa, August 17/2024(ENA)- The African Boxing Confederation Headquarters was officially inaugurated in Addis Ababa today. On the occasion, Culture and Sports Minister Shewit Shanka said the inauguration of the headquarters of the African Boxing Confederation in Ethiopia will help to strengthen sports diplomacy and develop the sport.   It will also help revive boxing in the country and encourage the youth to engage in boxing, which is a lucrative sport that will contribute to the country's development. The minister emphasized that boxing's social, political, and economic impact is significant in enhancing Ethiopia's image. African Boxing Confederation President, Eyasu Wosen stated on his part that the presence of the headquarters in Ethiopia will boost boxing, promote tourism, and attract investment.   He added that the African Boxing Confederation will support the sport across the continent by engage sponsors. In connection with the headquarters announcement, international boxing championship will take place at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum today.                

Addis Ababa, August 14/2024 (ENA) President Sahlework Zewde handed over recognition and prizes to the national delegation of Olympians who participated in the 33rd Wo rld Olympics in Paris, France. During the program held at the National Palace, President Sahlework emphasized that Ethiopia and Ethiopians are known for the outstanding achievements in athletics for long. The concerted effort of all the athletes and coaches is commendable, Sahlework said, and emphasized that Ethiopia’s rank in the Paris Olympic is not as expected and needs to be addressed. Marathon gold medal winner, Tamrat Tolla was awarded national gold Medal of Honor and 7 million Birr while Tigist Assefa, Tsige Duguma, and Berihu Aregawi were awarded 4 million Birr each. Ethiopia finished at the rank of 47th in the Paris Olympic by securing 4 medals of which 1 gold, 3 silver.

Addis Ababa, August 13/2024 (ENA) A delegation of Ethiopia’s Olympic team that participated at the 33rd Paris Olympic Games has arrived in Addis Ababa this morning. The team has received warm welcome up on arrival at the Addis Ababa Bole International Airport by Minister of Culture and Sports Shewit Shanka, State Minister, Ambassador Mesfin Cherinet, leaders of the Ethiopian Olympic Committee, the Ethiopian Athletics Federation, and other distinguished guests. During the occasion, Minister of Culture and Sports, Shewit Shanka, extended a warm welcome and offered them congratulations. She praised the athletes for elevating the Ethiopian flag on the global stage, acknowledging their hard work and contribution to enhancing the nation’s image. Some 39 athletes have participated at the Paris Olympics Game representing Ethiopia. Ethiopia finished 47th in the overall standings, securing a total of four medals: one gold and three silver. It also achieved a notable 9th place in the athletics medal table. A recognition and award ceremony will be held for the delegation at the National Palace this afternoon.

Addis Ababa August 11/2024 (ENA) In the final day of Paris of Olympics today Ethiopia’s Tigist Assefa finished second in women’s Marathon race.   Sifan Hassan finished the race first taking the gold medal for Netherlands and the Kenyan Hellen Obiri finished third. Ethiopia's first Olympic gold was won on Saturday by Tamirat Tola in the men's marathon at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.