The Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) have signed a major Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration and drive football development across Africa and Europe.

The agreement was signed in Vancouver, Canada, by CAF President Patrice Motsepe and UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin.

It focuses on expanding youth and women’s football, improving coach and referee education, strengthening governance, and promoting knowledge exchange between the two confederations.

Dr Motsepe said the partnership will build on the strong football ties between Africa and Europe, where many African players compete in top European leagues, while helping raise standards across the continent.

Čeferin noted that the agreement will create more opportunities for young players and support the growth of women’s football and community development.

According to CAF, The MoU, which runs until June 2031, will also support joint competitions, technical training, football medicine, and long-term development programs between African and European football associations.

Officials say the agreement reinforces football’s role as a powerful tool for unity, education, and social development, while aiming to unlock new opportunities for players, coaches, and officials across both continents.