The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced that a total of 19,685 coaches have obtained CAF licenses between 2021 and 2026. This information was released by the African football governing body on Wednesday. The licenses are part of the CAF's efforts to improve the standard of football coaching in Africa. The certification process is designed to equip coaches with the necessary skills and knowledge to lead their teams effectively.
According to the CAF, 12,770 technicians have obtained the C license, 4,846 the B license, 1,945 the A license, and 124 the CAF Pro license, the highest certification in the African football governing body's training system. The CAF Pro license is the most advanced level of coaching certification, and it is required for coaches who want to lead top-level teams. The large number of coaches obtaining licenses indicates a significant investment in football development in Africa.
The number of certifications has shown a notable increase over the period, rising from 1,797 in 2021 to 2,593 in 2022, then 3,746 in 2023 and 4,280 in 2024, before settling at 3,938 in 2025 and 3,331 in 2026. This upward trend suggests that more coaches are seeking to improve their skills and qualifications. The increase in certifications is likely to have a positive impact on the standard of football in Africa.
The growth in coaching certifications has also been reflected in the increased presence of African technicians at the helm of national teams during the World Cups. In 2010, there was only one African coach, while in 2014 and 2018, there were two. However, in the 2022 edition, all five African representatives were led by coaches from the continent. This shift indicates a growing confidence in African coaching talent.
The CAF Strategy Conference, which will take place from October 7-9 in Cape Verde, will focus on coach education and certification, among other key areas. The conference will bring together the 54 CAF member associations, national team coaches, and international experts to discuss the lessons learned from the 2026 World Cup and ways to strengthen the foundations of African football development, particularly with a view to the 2030 World Cup.
The CAF aims to continue expanding access to coaching education, strengthening continuous training, and offering more opportunities to African coaches in clubs, youth teams, and national teams. By investing in coach development, the CAF hopes to improve the competitiveness of African football on the global stage. The governing body is committed to supporting the growth of football in Africa.
The increase in coaching certifications and the growing presence of African coaches at the helm of national teams are positive indicators for the future of African football. As the CAF continues to prioritize coach education and development, the continent is likely to see improvements in the standard and competitiveness of its football. The 2030 World Cup presents a significant opportunity for African teams to make an impact, and the CAF's efforts to develop coaching talent will be crucial in achieving this goal.
Key points
- 19,685 coaches have obtained CAF licenses between 2021 and 2026.
- The CAF aims to continue expanding access to coaching education and strengthening continuous training.
- African coaches are increasingly leading national teams at the World Cup, with six out of ten African teams led by African coaches in the 2026 edition.
