Rwanda hosts FIFA TDS workshop to boost youth football development across Africa

The Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA), in partnership with FIFA, has launched a four day Talent Development Scheme (TDS) Knowledge Exchange Workshop in Kigali aimed at strengthening youth football development systems across Africa.

The workshop, taking place from May 12 to 15 at the Park Inn by Radisson Kigali, has brought together technical leaders, football administrators, and development experts from several African nations to exchange ideas and strategies on nurturing young football talent.

 

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Countries represented at the workshop include Kenya, Madagascar, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Comoros, Uganda, Central African Republic, The Gambia, Niger and Lesotho as well as the host nation.

The discussions during the workshop are focused on key areas of football development, including talent identification, youth national team structures, competition organization, and player development pathways. The initiative is part of the international governing body’s broader efforts to support member associations in building sustainable systems capable of producing top-level football talent.

FERWAFA President Fabrice N. Shema officially opened the workshop and emphasized Rwanda’s commitment to using football as a tool for national development, unity, and economic transformation.

Shema noted that Rwanda continues to align its football development projects with the country’s Vision 2050 and National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), highlighting the important role sports can play in empowering youth and creating opportunities.

During the opening ceremony, FIFA High Performance Specialist Anthony Baffoe presented a special recognition award to FERWAFA leadership in appreciation of the federation’s commitment and efforts toward football development.

The workshop is expected to strengthen collaboration among African football associations while helping participating countries improve their youth football structures and long term talent development programs.