Africa is set to remain one of the biggest beneficiaries of FIFA’s $5 billion global development program, FIFA officials said.
FIFA said nearly a quarter of all Forward funding mobilized since 2016 has gone to Africa, placing the continent on equal footing with Asia and Latin America as a priority region.
Officials said the allocation reflects both Africa’s structural infrastructure needs and its growing weight in world football.
Between 2016 and 2025, FIFA Forward financed 201 infrastructure projects across Africa.
These included 28 stadium renovation projects worth $21.64 million, four natural grass projects totaling $757,501, and 52 artificial turf pitches valued at about $42.5 million.
FIFA said the focus on synthetic surfaces responds to climate conditions, maintenance challenges and the need to maximize pitch utilization.
The largest share of investment went to 102 multipurpose projects such as technical centers, federation headquarters, gyms, medical units and administrative buildings.
The program also funded seven dormitory and accommodation projects worth $5.81 million and eight lighting and floodlight systems, including solar units, totaling $1.49 million.
FIFA officials said the approach marks a shift from funding isolated pitches to strengthening entire football ecosystems.
