AFC7 Advances Institutional Development of 7-a-Side Football in Equatorial Guinea
The global expansion of 7-a-side football continues to gain momentum as the African Confederation of 7-a-side Football (AFC7) strengthens its presence across the continent through high-level institutional engagement.
As part of this strategic effort, AFC7 held an official meeting with the Equatorial Guinean Olympic Committee (COGE) in Malabo, marking an important step toward the formal integration of 7-a-side football within national sporting structures.
A Strategic Institutional Engagement
Led by AFC7 President Jacques Martinien Manga, the delegation presented a comprehensive overview of the organization’s development framework, outlining key priorities for the growth of 7-a-side football in Africa.
The meeting focused on:
- Establishing a structured foundation for the sport at the national level
- Supporting long-term development through institutional collaboration
- Aligning with national sporting bodies to ensure sustainable growth
This engagement represents a critical step in positioning 7-a-side football within the official sporting ecosystem of Equatorial Guinea.
Building the Future of the Sport in Africa
AFC7 highlighted the steady expansion of 7-a-side football across multiple African nations, emphasizing a model based on governance, organization, and international alignment.
The initiative in Equatorial Guinea is part of a broader continental strategy aimed at:
- Developing national federations
- Creating competitive structures
- Promoting youth engagement through sport
This structured approach ensures that the growth of the sport is not only rapid but also sustainable and institutionally recognized.
A Clear International Framework
A central component of the discussion was the institutional nature of 7-a-side football and its global framework.
Operating under the leadership of IFA7, the sport continues to develop internationally through a clearly defined structure, reinforced by the 2018 coexistence agreement, which supports the independent evolution of 7-a-side football worldwide.
This framework allows:
- Flexibility in global development
- Independent governance structures
- Expansion into new markets and regions
Positive Reception from National Authorities
The Equatorial Guinean Olympic Committee welcomed the initiative and expressed its commitment to supporting the development of sport in the country, particularly in areas that promote youth participation and international engagement.
The proposal will now undergo internal review, while AFC7 continues its dialogue with governmental and sporting authorities.
A Growing Continental Movement
This meeting forms part of AFC7’s broader mission to establish a strong and unified presence across Africa.
Through ongoing institutional visits, governmental meetings, and strategic partnerships, AFC7 is laying the foundation for a new era of 7-a-side football on the continent.
Looking Ahead
As discussions progress in Equatorial Guinea and beyond, the continued collaboration between AFC7 and national stakeholders will be essential in advancing the sport’s development.
IFA7 remains fully committed to supporting these efforts as part of its global vision for structured, competitive, and internationally recognized 7-a-side football.
A unified vision. A growing continent. The future of 7-a-side football in motion.
