The Confederation of African Football (CAF) president Dr Patrice Tlhopane Motsepe arrived in Juba, South Sudan this morning for a one-day working visit.
Motsepe, who took over the leadership of the continental football governing body in March 2021, was received at Juba International Airport by South Sudan’s Football Association President, Augustino Madut.
Speaking to reporters upon arrival, Dr Patrice said: “Today we will be having a meeting with the minister [of youth and sports] and the president. The focus is on football development, to make sure that this great continues to develop.”
“Football is a unique sport; it is about showing the rest of the world the talent and capability of our people of the continent. It is also about bringing people together.”
According to the CAF President, football is a very important tool to bring Africans together.
For his part, South Sudan’s Football Association President Augustino Madut said: “It is an honour and pleasure for deciding and programming to come and see football development in South Sudan; it is a good gesture from you.”
This is the South African billionaire’s first visit to South Sudan. He took charge following a five-year ban handed to his predecessor Ahmad.
Motsepe’s visit to the world’s youngest nation comes following last week’s decision by CAF to move the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations from June/July 2023 to January/February 2024.