The state of football in the Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA) region is disheartening. Once known for its lively competitions and strong teams, CECAFA has now become ineffective and irrelevant. This decline is glaringly obvious when we see Kenya’s U23 team participating in the Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (COSAFA) tournament, highlighting the stark difference in the performance and management of the two bodies. It’s time for CECAFA’s leadership to take responsibility and make significant changes.

COSAFA continues to thrive despite facing challenges of its own. It regularly organizes tournaments, provides platforms for young talent, and maintains a strong football culture in Southern Africa. The inclusion of a team from the CECAFA region in COSAFA’s competition speaks volumes about COSAFA’s effective management and commitment to football development. In contrast, CECAFA’s failure to offer similar opportunities exposes its inefficiencies and lack of proper governance.

CECAFA has been plagued by poor management, lack of transparency, and misallocation of resources. The stagnation of its activities is not only a disservice to footballers and fans but also a betrayal of the region’s rich football heritage. Why has CECAFA failed to organize regular tournaments? Where is the accountability for funds allocated for football development? These are questions that need urgent answers. The current leadership must acknowledge their role in this decline and take immediate action to address these issues.

Just like CECAFA, imagine one of the oldest football tournaments across the global but still can’t attract numbers and has little influence in the region.

That @Cecafaonline committee has to wake up.

— Liberty MBABAZI (@LibertyMbabazi) June 27, 2024

The football federations in the CECAFA region need to collaborate and set aside personal interests to revitalize the body. There should be a clear strategy for developing football that includes regular competitions, investment in grassroots programmes, and partnerships with successful football organisations. Transparency in financial matters and professional management are crucial for restoring CECAFA’s credibility. For the sake of the players, fans, and the region’s football legacy, it is imperative for CECAFA to reclaim its position as a leading force in African football.

It’s time for CECAFA football bosses to wake up and take responsibility. The contrast with COSAFA’s vibrancy is a stark reminder of what can be achieved with proper management and dedication. East African football deserves better, and the fans are ready for change. Share your thoughts and let’s push for the revival of football in our region.