In a significant move towards championing football development, equality, and connectivity in Africa, the Confédération Africaine de Football ("CAF") and Orange have reaffirmed their enduring partnership ahead of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon).
The renewal solidifies Orange's role as the exclusive telecommunications partner for CAF, a position held since 2008.
This renewed collaboration is not merely an extension of an existing agreement but a strategic evolution. The revised partnership empowers Orange to channel its efforts towards fostering connectivity, equality, and inclusivity in the realm of African football. As the telecommunications giant gears up to support CAF's marquee events, including the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023, the TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2024, and the CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, the focus is sharply on three pivotal pillars.
Firstly, gender equality takes center stage, reflecting a concerted effort to bridge gaps and promote inclusiveness within the sporting landscape. Orange's commitment to fostering gender equality aligns with the broader global movement towards ensuring fair representation and opportunities for women in football.
Secondly, the partnership emphasizes inclusion, mirroring a commitment to creating a diverse and accessible football environment across Africa and the Middle East. By leveraging the power of sport, Orange aims to break down barriers and unite fans, transcending geographical and social divides.
Lastly, the initiative "Orange Tous Connectés" encapsulates the telecommunications giant's mission to harness the unifying force of sports. This commitment extends beyond the stadium, aiming to connect customers and fans alike across Africa and the Middle East. Orange envisions a future where connectivity is not just a technological facet but a bridge that brings people together through their shared passion for football.
CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe said: “Orange has been a great supporter and partner of African Football for many years. We are excited to continue working together with Orange to make African Football amongst the best in the world and self-supporting. The TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire is expected to be watched by over 800 million people and we are delighted that Orange is our partner for this Competition and the CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025. Our Partnership with Orange will also support the development and growth of Women’s football on the African Continent.”
Jérôme Henique, CEO of Orange Middle East and Africa comments: “Orange is a long-term and loyal partner of football in Africa and the Middle East. Our commitment to African football spans more than 20 years, and we’re proud to host over 40 football partnerships in countries across the region, including national teams as well as numerous various youth, academy and university programmes across several countries. We’re delighted to continue this important work with CAF to co-create and drive real change through common objectives.”
The partnership between CAF and Orange rest on three pillars namely:
- Gender equality: Orange has committed to delivering 50/50 representation across Orange’s sponsorship portfolio, promoting equal access and opportunity. This builds on our active partnership of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and specific programmes since 2018.
- Inclusion: by leveraging the footprint of Orange Digital Centers, Orange is dedicated to engaging, educating and connecting young people. Through this partnership with CAF, Orange will develop dedicated programmes to support young players to develop their digital skills and training. For example, Orange aims to teach coding skills to youth by using football content and challenges to inspire them. From simple football games to tournament stats, we can use the sport they love to engage them in coding while building valuable digital skills.
- Orange Tous Connectés: Orange Tous Connectés is a platform which will ensure that Orange customers benefit from seamless service continuity and connectivity to enjoy, share and participate in the sport they love.