In a remarkable development on Sunday, 18 January, in Morocco, Gayton McKenzie, the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture of South Africa (DSAC), formalised a cooperation agreement between the DSAC and FIFA Development Zurich AG, which will lead to the establishment of a fully supported FIFA Regional Development Office in Johannesburg.
Just hours prior to the final match of the African Cup of Nations (Afcon) between Senegal and the host nation Morocco, the agreement between the DSAC and FIFA was finalised on the sidelines of the Afcon final in Rabat, in the presence of FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
The agreement establishes a framework that enables South Africa to support FIFA’s administrative, movement, and operational functions within the nation, while FIFA takes on the responsibility for financing and staffing the Regional Office, which will cater to South Africa and its neighboring countries.
The obligations of DSAC will encompass providing visa assistance, customs support, and coordination with pertinent authorities, with FIFA covering all expenses related to office operations, personnel, and program implementation. In remarks made from Rabat, Minister McKenzie stated that the signing marks a practical step toward strengthening football development in Southern Africa.
“This agreement is about ensuring that development projects, coaching support, technical programmes and administrative capacity are accessible within our region,” the Minister said.
He stated that the regional office will enable FIFA to collaborate more closely with our football federations, and although it is based in South Africa, it is designed to serve as a resource for the entire Southern African football community.
The Minister acknowledged the significance of the location and timing. “It is fitting that we sign this agreement during Afcon and here in Morocco,” he said.
McKenzie also commended the host nation of the Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco, for organising a tournament of outstanding quality. He praised the quality of the venues, logistics, and public engagement, which showcased professionalism and genuine continental capability. Minister McKenzie concluded by lauding FIFA, the Confederation of African Football (CAF), and the Kingdom of M
