The announcement marks a significant milestone for the competition, which has rapidly grown into one of the most impactful youth development initiatives on the continent.
Massive Reach and Impact
Launched as a flagship initiative under CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe, the African Schools Football Championship has already touched the lives of over 3 million boys and girls across Africa since its inception in 2022. The programme combines football with education, using the sport as a tool to improve learning environments, build infrastructure, and create opportunities for young talents.
The 2026 edition will culminate in Harare, Zimbabwe, from 6 to 10 April 2026, with the best school teams from across the continent battling for continental glory in both boys’ and girls’ categories.
Lucrative Prize Money for Development
One of the unique features of the tournament is its substantial prize money, which is fully directed toward school development projects through the Motsepe Foundation:
- Winners (Boys & Girls): $300,000 each
- Runners-up: $200,000 each
- Third place: $150,000 each
Additional prize money is also awarded at the zonal phase (winners receive $100,000, runners-up $75,000, and third place $50,000). These funds have already led to tangible improvements such as upgraded classrooms, better sports facilities, and enhanced learning resources in participating schools.
Dr Motsepe is expected to attend the final in person, further underscoring his personal commitment to grassroots football and youth development across Africa.
A Platform for Young Dreams
The live broadcast on SuperSport will give millions of viewers across the continent the chance to watch Africa’s brightest schoolboy and schoolgirl talents in action. It also provides valuable exposure for the young players, many of whom could emerge as future stars for their national teams.
This initiative perfectly aligns with CAF’s vision of using football to drive social change while nurturing the next generation of African footballers.
The draw for the finals will take place on Thursday, 2 April in Harare, conducted by CAF Legends Esrom Nyandoro (Zimbabwe) and Amanda Dlamini (South Africa).
This is a huge moment for school sports in Africa! The combination of live TV coverage, life-changing prize money, and direct investment in education makes this one of the most meaningful competitions on the continent.
Are you excited to watch the finals on SuperSport? Which country do you think will lift the trophy this year? Drop your thoughts below!