The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has disclosed an overwhelming response of over 5,000 media accreditation applications for the upcoming TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations. This notable figure represents a staggering 90 per cent increase compared to the applications received for the Cameroon event in 2021.
According to the official CAF website, the media accreditation application process closed on November 24. Impressively, the applications have come from more than 70 different nationalities, reflecting a robust global interest in Africa’s most significant sporting event.
Due to the immense demand for accreditations, CAF has initiated a quota system for all countries to ensure fair access. The organization reiterated its commitment to fairness in the allocation and implementation of quotas while emphasizing its dedication to promoting media freedom and access.
In its efforts to protect media rights holders, the CAF announced forthcoming guidelines for non-rights holders and the enforcement of restrictions on filming and other activities. The allocation of quotas will prioritize the host nation at 30 per cent, participating countries at 35 per cent, regional (neighbouring) countries at 10 per cent, and the rest of the world (countries) at 25 per cent.
CAF emphasized its close collaboration with participating member associations to ensure equitable representation in the allocation of quotas for each country. The organization also highlighted priority access for agencies in this accreditation process.
The 2023 AFCON is scheduled to commence from January 13 to February 11, 2024, in Cote d’Ivoire, featuring the participation of 24 nations
. (NAN)