The Council of East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA) confirmed a packed calendar for the 2026 season. The announcement came during the Elective General Assembly held on February 7 in Djibouti. Newly elected CECAFA President Paulos Weldehaimanot Andemariam praised the competitions committee for delivering a clear schedule for the year.
CECAFA 2026 Competitions Begin with U-17 Girls Championship
The 2026 season will start with the CECAFA U-17 Girls Championship. The tournament will run from May 30 to June 14. The event continues CECAFA’s commitment to developing women’s football across the region. Member associations expect strong participation as youth programs expand.
Beach Soccer Returns After Delays
CECAFA Competitions Manager Yusuf Mossi confirmed the long-awaited CECAFA Beach Soccer Championship will finally take place. The tournament is scheduled for July 1–5. Mossi noted that the Zone must keep pace with regions like COSAFA, which already host regular beach soccer events. The competition aims to boost the sport’s visibility and attract new talent.
Kagame Cup Set for July and August
The CECAFA Kagame Cup will run from July 18 to August 9. The tournament remains a key pre-season platform for clubs preparing for CAF competitions. Teams use the Kagame Cup to test new signings, refine tactics, and build momentum before continental action.
CAF Qualifiers Dominate the Second Half of the Year
The second half of the season features several CAF qualification tournaments. These include the CAF Women’s Champions League CECAFA qualifiers, African Schools Football Championship qualifiers, U-17 AFCON qualifiers, and U-20 AFCON qualifiers. Each event offers teams a pathway to major continental competitions.
Full CECAFA 2026 Tournament Schedule
U-20 AFCON CECAFA Qualifiers: September 19 – October 10
U-17 Girls Championship: May 30 – June 14
Beach Soccer Championship: July 1–5
Kagame Cup: July 18 – August 9
CAF Women’s Champions League CECAFA Qualifiers: August 22 – September 6
African Schools Football Championship CECAFA Qualifiers: August 12–15
U-17 AFCON CECAFA Qualifiers: October 14–19
From: Africatopsports
