The Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Dr Patrice Motsepe has been awarded Côte d’Ivoire’s highest honour, the “Commander of the National Order”.
The award was conferred by Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara and the Chancellor of National Orders in Abidjan on Friday.
CAF General Secretary Veron Mosengo-Omba was also recognised, receiving the “Officer of the National Order” award.
President Ouattara said Dr Motsepe had “played a key role not only in the successful delivery of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations but also in changing the face and fortunes of African Football”.
The Ivorian government’s recognition comes in the wake of what has been described as “the most successful TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in the history of this competition”.
The award acknowledges Dr Motsepe’s leadership and commitment in delivering the tournament, which concluded in February with Côte d’Ivoire emerging as champions.
The conferment of these honours underscores the growing recognition of football’s importance in African diplomacy and international relations.
