FIFA has signed a cooperation agreement with the South African Department of Sport, Arts and Culture of South Africa to establish a fully supported FIFA Regional Development Office in Johannesburg.
FIFA’s regional offices serve as daily points of contact for member associations, helping deliver development programmes, technical support and capacity building tailored to local needs. Opening an office in Johannesburg, should help drive initiatives under the FIFA Forward programme, which has channelled more than USD 1 billion (R16.5 billion) into African football since 2016, supporting youth football, women’s leagues, infrastructure and federation governance.
According to South-African minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, “the Regional Office will allow FIFA to work more closely with our football federations, and while it is hosted in South Africa, it is intended as a resource for the whole Southern African football family.” Neighbouring countries are also expected to benefit as the office strengthens regional networks, reduces administrative bottlenecks and deepens cooperation among associations.
He added: “This agreement is about ensuring that development projects, coaching support, technical programmes and administrative capacity are accessible within our region.”
McKenzie reiterated that the agreement reinforces South Africa’s broader intention to expand collaboration with FIFA and CAF in areas that benefit communities, youth participation and football ecosystems across the region.
“Our role is to help open the door. FIFA carries the investment and delivery responsibilities, while we ensure that we are a welcoming and enabling host,” he said.
The presence of the office is likely to stimulate wider social and economic benefits, ranging from community sport participation and youth engagement to new employment opportunities in coaching, officiating and sport management.