South Africa
In a landmark move to boost women’s football across the continent, the Confederation of African Football (CAF), under the leadership of President Dr. Patrice Motsepe, has announced a 100% increase in the prize money for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), alongside the introduction of a brand-new trophy for the tournament.
This progressive decision underscores CAF’s commitment to gender equity in football and the growing recognition of the impact and popularity of women’s competitions in Africa.
Background: The Rise of WAFCON
The Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, Africa’s premier women’s football competition, has grown significantly in stature over the past decade. The 2022 edition in Morocco, which saw record-breaking attendance and television viewership, set a new standard for the tournament. That edition also witnessed an increase in prize money to $2.4 million—up from just $975,000 in 2018—marking CAF’s early intentions to elevate the women’s game.
Building on that momentum, CAF has now taken a bold leap forward for the 2024 edition.
New Prize Money Structure for WAFCON 2024
CAF has officially increased the total prize purse for WAFCON to $3,475,000, a significant jump from the $2.4 million allotted in 2022. Here’s the new breakdown:
- Champion: $1,000,000 (up from $500,000)
- Runner-Up: $500,000
- Fourth-Place Team: $300,000
- Third-Placed Teams in Group Stages: $150,000 each
- Fourth-Placed Teams in Group Stages: $125,000 each
In a symbolic gesture of the tournament’s evolution, CAF has also unveiled a redesigned WAFCON trophy, reflecting a new era of competitiveness, prestige, and opportunity for African women’s football.
A Turning Point for African Women’s Football
CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe emphasized the federation’s commitment to ensuring that women’s football receives the investment and recognition it deserves. He noted that the latest adjustments are not just symbolic but part of a broader strategy to inspire young girls across Africa, enhance infrastructure, and support national federations in growing the women’s game at grassroots and professional levels.
This increase in financial reward and symbolic upgrades is expected to elevate the quality of play, inspire more national teams to invest in women’s football, and attract greater commercial interest in the women’s tournament.
As anticipation builds for the upcoming edition of WAFCON, the message from CAF is clear: The future of African football includes everyone—and women are central to its success.
