The Confederation of African Football (CAF) will bring together 54 National Safety and Security Officers from across Africa for a three-day symposium dedicated to advancing stadium safety and security across the continent.
Set to take place from October 29 to 31, 2024, in Cairo, Egypt, the event will be led by CAF’s Head of Safety and Security, Dr Christian Emeruwa, who emphasized the initiative’s goal of protecting players, officials, fans, and VIPs at African football events.
Dr Emeruwa noted that the symposium will allow National Safety and Security Officers to learn about updated strategies and perspectives on efficient match management and security practices within their respective football associations.
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Recalling the progress since CAF’s initial security training in November 2019, he affirmed CAF’s dedication to equipping and collaborating with safety officials across Africa.
“We believe that the time is right to convene them again in Cairo for an intensive three-day workshop covering the essential aspects of the successful organisation of football matches in their respective countries.
Representatives of UEFA, FIFA, NFIP and the European Group of Football Police will join us. Together, we will be able to share our experiences and best practices to strengthen the standards we aim to achieve throughout Africa and especially in each country,” added Dr. Emeruwa.
The event will feature international insights, with experts from UEFA, FIFA, the European Group of Football Police, and the National Football Information Point (NFIP) sharing their expertise and best practices.
Key figures include Helmut Spahn, FIFA’s Director of Safety, Security, and Access, and Dr. Adrian Dinca, NFIP President, along with representatives from the German Football Federation (DFB).
The program’s three-day agenda will combine theoretical knowledge and practical exercises. Topics covered will include CAF Safety Regulations, security challenges in African stadiums, and the role of the NSSO.
Hands-on sessions will explore stadium access, crowd management, and accreditation processes. Through these interactive sessions, CAF aims to establish a robust security framework within African football.
This initiative reflects CAF’s commitment to fostering skilled security professionals and strengthening cross-continental collaboration.
By the end of the symposium, participants will be equipped to implement enhanced security measures, contributing to safer, more organized football environments across Africa.
