Newly-elected CECAFA boss vows unity, stronger governance ahead of AFCON 2027

Newly-elected Council of East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA) President Paulos Weldehaimanot Andemariam has vowed to usher in a new era of unity, stronger governance and competitive growth across the region.

Speaking after officially taking over at the CECAFA headquarters in Nairobi, the Eritrean football chief laid out a reform-driven agenda aimed at strengthening the institution and delivering greater value to its 11 member associations, including Zanzibar.

“My target is to make CECAFA the best in terms of its football governing as well as to unite all member associations that we have,” said Paulos.

He emphasised that revitalising regional competitions and restructuring the secretariat will be among his administration’s immediate priorities.

“The second is to improve the competitions that we have, as well as the Secretariat. Alongside that, we are the next hosts of the African Cup of Nations 202,7 which will be held here in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. We have to improve our way of doing things, and so we have to make ourselves ready to host the coming event,” he added.

With Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania set to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, Andemariam acknowledged that the region must raise its operational and administrative standards to match the magnitude of the continental showpiece.

Paulos stressed the importance of structured capacity-building programs and strengthening human resources across all member associations.

Earlier in the day, the new CECAFA boss held talks with Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi, highlighting ongoing engagements between the regional body and Kenya’s Ministry of Youth and Sports.

Central to those discussions was the establishment of a permanent CECAFA headquarters in Nairobi, a move seen as crucial in enhancing institutional stability and regional influence.

He was formally received at the headquarters by Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohamed, alongside CECAFA Vice President Ali Abdi and Interim Executive Director Jean Sseninde.

During the meeting, Mohamed pledged collaboration and support to ensure CECAFA meets its strategic goals.

Paulos succeeds Alexandre Muyenge, who had been serving in an acting capacity since late last year.

His tenure begins at a pivotal time, with the region seeking to consolidate its influence in African football while preparing to host the continent’s biggest tournament.

Click here to read article