Omna Taddele
April 24, 2026Mali: New FEMAFOOT president Baba Cisset pledges unity and development
Photo: Malian Football Federation (FEMAFOOT)
Mali: New FEMAFOOT president Baba Cisset pledges unity and development
Newly elected Malian Football Federation (FEMAFOOT) president Baba Cisset says he will focus on developing football in the West African nation. Cissé won the elective general assembly in a landslide on Thursday, April 16 in Bamako.
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Cisset received 69 votes from 72 members, winning comprehensively to lead FEMAFOOT for the next four years. Administrative instability has affected the federation and its reputation, and Cisset will be tasked with changing the situation. According to Mali Web, he stated that developing football in Mali will be his top priority.
“Our ambition is to develop this sport at all levels: through infrastructure, physical training, and especially competitions. We are here with a single objective: to contribute fully to the development of Malian football. Our intention is clear: to continue working together, putting everyone’s skills at the service of the greater Malian football family,” said the head of Mali First Division side FC Malicoura.
Mali failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, although the number of African representatives increased. Their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations performance was not satisfactory. Their clubs managed to go further in both CAF club competitions, with Stade Malien reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League. They have also qualified for the 2026 African U-17 Cup of Nations and the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Cisset promised positive change in the federation so that Malian football can flourish during his tenure. “Together, we are convinced that we will project a positive image of our country, strive for trophies, and build a strong culture within our federation, founded on transparency, ethics, and respect for all.”