New beginnings!

In this latest extended episode of The COSAFA Show, we bring you a bumper edition following the COSAFA Elective General Assembly held in Harare, Zimbabwe, where key decisions were taken that could shape the future of football in Southern Africa.At the centre of the episode is newly elected COSAFA President Tariq Babitseng, who begins his tenure with an ambitious vision for the region. The Botswana Football Association President takes over the leadership of COSAFA at a pivotal time and speaks about his priorities, the challenges facing Southern African football and how he hopes to drive growth and success across Member Associations. We hear directly from Babitseng following his election as he outlines his plans and aspirations for the regional game.The show also features Zimbabwean Solomon Mudege, FIFA’s Head of Development Programmes in Africa, who provides fascinating insight into the role world football’s governing body plays in supporting Member Associations across the continent. From infrastructure and governance to technical development and grassroots initiatives, Mudege explains how FIFA assistance is helping African nations strengthen football structures and unlock long-term growth.We also hear from Seychelles Football Federation President Elvis Chetty, who reflects on the enormous success of the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup hosted on the Indian Ocean island last year. Chetty discusses the impact the event had on Seychelles and reveals an exciting ambition for the future that could prove hugely significant for football fans in the region.Finally, COSAFA Executive Committee member Dr Brenda Kunda joins the programme to discuss the continued rise of women’s football in Southern Africa. A passionate advocate for the women’s game, she shares her views on the progress being made, the work still to be done and the opportunities ahead as women’s football continues to grow across the region.