The President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Patrice Motsepe, has guaranteed top-notch organization and security for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cote d’Ivoire.
Motsepe conveyed this assurance during a news conference in Abidjan on Friday, just ahead of the biennial continental showpiece’s Saturday kickoff.
He emphasized that CAF has been diligently collaborating with the host country to ensure a well-organized tournament and prevent the recurrence of mistakes seen in the previous tournament held in Cameroon.
“I am satisfied that there is a huge amount of determination and commitment and I think we are on the right track.
“The Cameroon accident was avoidable.
“I am satisfied the appropriate steps have been taken to make sure we will avoid the painful experience we had in Cameroon,” he said.
The 2021 AFCON in Cameroon experienced a tragic incident at the Olembe Stadium in Yaounde, marked by a stampede during the round of 16 match between Cameroon and the Comoros, leading to the death of eight fans and injuries to others.
Motsepe affirmed that significant efforts are in progress to ensure a seamless and secure tournament this time around.
