CAF Increases Member Associations’ Funding by 150 Percent

Zakazaka; it is a very welcomed development 

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has increased annual funding for its member associations, including the Football Association of Malawi (FAM), by 150 percent, raising the allocation to $1 million (about K1.75 billion) per association.

Previously, member associations received $400,000 (approximately K702.8 million), meaning the new arrangement represents an increase of $600,000 (around K1.05 billion).

In a statement, CAF said the funding hike takes effect this year and is part of its broader reforms aimed at transforming continental football administration and development.

FAM director of operations Gomezgani zakazaka  welcomed the increase, saying it would significantly support the association’s development programmes.

“It is a very welcome development as the bulk of the funding will be invested in our development programmes towards our goal of transforming the game,” said Zakazaka.

CAF noted that the new allocation is a five-fold increase from the $200,000 that was distributed before the current leadership assumed office. The continental body said substantial resources have been earmarked for the development of both men’s and women’s youth football, which it considers a critical long-term investment.

Under CAF’s Impact Programme, member associations are also set to receive up to $1.6 million over a four-year cycle, representing a 60 percent increase from the previous funding period.

According to CAF, the funds are intended to support operational costs, training of coaches and referees, women’s football, and youth development. At least 50 percent of the funding under the Impact Programme must be spent on women’s football and youth development.

Zakazaka said FAM is ready to comply with the conditions attached to the funding, noting that the association’s existing programmes align with CAF’s requirements.

“The programmes are already in place and are in line with our transformation agenda. The funding will also go a long way in complementing our huge budget,” he said.

On December 29, 2025, a FAM extraordinary general meeting approved a K15.3 billion budget for the 2026 financial year. The budget focuses on youth and grassroots football development, league and competition development, capacity building and governance, infrastructure development, and international competitiveness.

FAM projects total expenditure of K14.8 billion in 2026, leaving an anticipated surplus of K507 million, which the association says will be directed towards capital projects and long-term football development initiatives.

Revenue projections are largely driven by FIFA funding, Malawi Government support, corporate partnerships and sponsorships, investment income, broadcasting rights, and gate collections.

 By Knoxy Kam'mwamba 

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