Photo: Mpalanyi Ssentongo/New Vision

Ugandan Cranes head coach Bobby Williamson takes the boys through a training session at Namboole, the team is set to defend its Cecafa title. (File Photo)

Council of East and Central African Football Association (Cecafa) member states have agreed unanimously to support incumbent CAF president Issa Hayatou, who is seeking re-election for the continental body in next year's elections.

The decision was reached in Cecafa congress held on Friday at Royal Imperial Hotel.

Speaking at a press conference, Cecafa chairman Leodagar Tenga said, "We have decided as Cecafa to support Hayatou in the next elections. He has proved competent and we want him to continue with the same work he has been doing."

Hayatou has on his part urged nations from the Cecafa region to be active in bidding to host major soccer events in the continent.

"We would love to see the African Nations Cup or these big African soccer events being held in this region. However, we cannot forcefully implement that. The federations have to bid for that chance and I want to personally appeal to them to make bids," Hayatou said.

Hayatou, who turned 65 in August this year, has been at the helm of the affairs of African football since 1988.