According to reports, African Clubs Association (ACA) Deputy Chairperson Jessica Motaung has praised the competitiveness of football leagues across the Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (COSAFA) region, highlighting their potential to contribute to the growth and development of African club football.

Motaung has emphasised the importance of Southern African football in building a more connected and competitive football environment across the continent. Her position reflects the need for stronger cooperation among clubs, league administrators and football governing bodies to improve professionalism and create sustainable opportunities for teams.

COSAFA represents football associations across Southern Africa and provides a platform for regional competitions and collaboration. Its member associations play an important role in developing players, strengthening domestic leagues and preparing clubs for the challenges of continental tournaments.

Through her position within the ACA, Motaung has an opportunity to contribute to discussions about how Southern African clubs can strengthen their relationships with football stakeholders in other parts of Africa. Greater cooperation could help clubs share expertise, improve administration and identify opportunities for commercial growth.

Established in November 2023, the ACA was created to represent the interests of professional football clubs and provide them with a collective voice in decisions affecting the game across Africa. Its objectives include strengthening governance, expanding commercial opportunities and encouraging closer engagement between clubs and football authorities.

These priorities are significant as African clubs continue to face challenges involving financial sustainability, infrastructure, fixture scheduling and the demands of competing in domestic and continental competitions. Addressing these issues requires investment, effective administration and long-term planning.

In South Africa, clubs such as Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns continue to compete for domestic honours while pursuing success in continental competitions. Their progress also highlights the importance of developing structures that support consistent performance beyond individual matches and seasons.

Improving the competitiveness of African club football, however, requires more than strong performances on the pitch. Professional club management, effective licensing systems, reliable facilities and sustainable commercial partnerships are also essential to long-term development.

Motaung's praise for COSAFA leagues highlights the potential value of regional collaboration in strengthening African football. The next challenge will be translating cooperation between clubs and administrators into practical improvements that benefit players, supporters, investors and the wider football community.

With the ACA providing a platform for collective engagement, Southern African clubs have an opportunity to contribute to efforts aimed at building a more professional, competitive and financially sustainable future for African club football.

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