Journalists covering the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) can now follow press conferences in multiple languages using their mobile phones, after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) rolled out a Remote Simultaneous Interpretation system for the first time at a CAF tournament.
The system allows reporters to scan a QR code at the press conference venue, open a browser link, and listen through earphones as professional interpreters provide real-time translation.
This replaces the traditional use of bulky headsets, making it easier for media from different countries to access information simultaneously.
Accredited journalists attending official press conferences across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda can now choose from several language channels, each managed by a CAF interpreter.
"Journalists attending press conferences receive a QR code to access the live interpretation. Using their own mobile phones and earphones, they listen in their preferred language through a web browser. Each language has a dedicated channel managed by professional CAF interpreters," CAF explained in a statement.
The initiative was spearheaded by CAF’s Communications Division, under the leadership of Luxolo September, and executed by the Language Services Unit, led by Patrice Godonou.
According to CAF’s Head of Communications, Luxolo September, the initiative ensures that language barriers no longer prevent reporters from following tournament briefings, asking questions, or recording quotes accurately.
“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,” said September.
“No journalist will miss a message due to language limitations. It reflects our commitment to innovation, inclusion, and ensuring African football speaks to every corner of the continent and the world.”
The rollout is part of a wider set of media improvements at CHAN PAMOJA 2024. CAF has also strengthened Wi-Fi connectivity, expanded digital content distribution, and enhanced matchday media facilities to accommodate over 800 accredited journalists covering the event.
According to officials, the aim is to provide a seamless experience for media professionals covering the tournament across multiple countries.
“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,” said Godonou, CAF Language Services Manager.
