FIFA Forward has invested more than $1.2 billion in the development of football across Africa since 2016, officials from the world governing body announced on Thursday in Salé.
Globally, the FIFA Forward program has injected over $5 billion into football development worldwide, officials said during a press briefing held at FIFA’s regional office in Morocco, located at the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Maâmoura, near Salé.
Between 2016 and 2025, FIFA Forward funding in Africa supported 201 infrastructure projects, including 28 minor stadium and stand renovations (worth $21.64 million), 4 natural grass pitch projects (grass surfaces, irrigation and water systems) totaling $757,501, as well as 52 artificial turf pitch projects ($42.49 million).
The program also financed 102 technical centers, headquarters, gyms, medical facilities and multi-purpose buildings, amounting to $103.67 million, 7 accommodation facilities (dormitories, housing and hotel-type establishments), valued at $5.81 million, and 8 floodlighting projects, including solar upgrades, with a total budget of $1.49 million.
According to Gelson Fernandes, FIFA Regional Director of the Member Associations Division for Africa, the program’s impact goes far beyond finances.
“This is about development, creating opportunities for young people, jobs, and giving girls and boys the chance to play football. It’s important for us to give people opportunities,” Fernandes told MAP.
“Looking ahead, we are planning many initiatives with each federation, from pitches and stadiums to competitions and capacity building,” he added.
The briefing, attended by African and international media representatives, also showcased FIFA’s key development initiatives in Africa, including FIFA Arena, Football for Schools, and the women’s football development program, with a spotlight on several successful case studies.