CAF introduces innovative media interpretation tech

A New Era in Media Access for African Football

The Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) has taken a significant step forward in the realm of media services by introducing Remote Simultaneous Interpretation (RSI). This innovative technology was first deployed during press conferences at the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN), PAMOJA 2024, marking a milestone in the organization’s efforts to enhance accessibility and inclusivity.

For the first time in CAF's history, and among the few global sports organizations to implement such a system, journalists attending the event across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda have been able to access real-time audio interpretation using their own mobile devices. This eliminates the need for traditional bulky headsets or receivers, making the process more efficient and user-friendly.

How It Works

Journalists participating in press conferences receive a QR code that grants them access to live interpretation. Using their personal mobile phones and earphones, they can listen to the content in their preferred language through a web browser. Each language is assigned a dedicated channel managed by professional CAF interpreters, ensuring accuracy and clarity.

This technological advancement is spearheaded by the CAF Communications Division unit, under the leadership of Luxolo September. The initiative is executed by the Language Services Unit, led by Patrice Godonou. Their combined efforts have resulted in a system that not only enhances the experience for journalists but also aligns with CAF's broader goals of innovation and inclusion.

Vision and Impact

Luxolo September, CAF’s Head of Communications and media strategy, emphasized the significance of this move. "This is a transformational step for how CAF supports the media and positions CAF among the world’s most innovative sports organisations in terms of language access," he stated. He added that RSI ensures no journalist misses out on critical information due to language barriers, reflecting CAF's commitment to innovation and inclusion.

Patrice Godonou, CAF Language Services Manager, highlighted the benefits of the system. "It is simple, cost-effective and above all, accessible, allowing journalists to follow and record in real-time using only their phones and earphones without the need for complicated on-site equipment," he said. This approach not only reduces logistical challenges but also makes the process more sustainable.

Broader Commitment to Innovation

The RSI initiative is part of the CAF Communications Division’s ongoing commitment to fostering innovation and inclusion within African football. By leveraging technology, CAF aims to ensure that the voices of African football are heard across the continent and beyond. This effort underscores the organization's dedication to modernizing its operations and enhancing the experience for all stakeholders involved.

As the use of RSI continues to evolve, it sets a new standard for media access in sports events. The success of this initiative could inspire other organizations to adopt similar technologies, ultimately leading to a more connected and inclusive global sports community. With continued investment in such innovations, CAF is well-positioned to lead the way in redefining how media interacts with sports events on an international scale.