CAF President Ahmad honoured

Cape Town - The government of Madagascar has honoured the president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Ahmad Ahmad with national award for his election as the head of continent’s football governing body at a function held on Wednesday in Antananarivo.

On the occasion, Ahmad was elevated to the rank of Grand Officer of the National Order by the President Hery Rajaonarimampianina at a colourful ceremony that was attended by high ranking government officials.

"Your election as head of the CAF is an honor for the country. Malagasy sport in recent times is constantly making the country known at the highest level. After the sporting achievements of 2016, already at the beginning of the year you have brought us this good news," said the Madagascar president.

In his acceptance speech, Ahmad declared to fly the nation flag high and work hard to improve the status of African football.

"My victory is the result of solidarity and the work of many people, including you, Mr. President, through lobbying. I will try to wear Malagasy colors with my honors in my actions," said CAF’s new president in his speech.

The 57-year-old Ahmad won the seat by 34 votes to 20, a major victory taking the reins of African football after unseating Hayatou, who was looking for his eighth term as President of CAF.