The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced a 100% increase in prize money for the winners of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), as part of a bold new push to elevate women’s football across the continent.
The winning team of this year’s tournament, kicking off Saturday, July 5, in Morocco, will now take home $1 million, up from the previous $500,000. CAF has also confirmed a 45% increase in the total prize pool, significantly enhancing financial rewards for teams across all stages of the competition.
CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe described the move as a reflection of the Confederation’s “ongoing commitment to the development and growth of Women’s Football in Africa.”
“The 100% increase in the prize money for the winner and the 45% total increase for the competition should contribute to raising the salaries of women footballers, coaches, and staff,” Dr. Motsepe said in a statement.
He also praised the rapidly improving standard of the women’s game across Africa, calling it “world class” and expressing optimism about growing fan interest, viewership, and commercial support.
The prize for the tournament’s runner-up has been increased from $300,000 to $500,000, while the third- and fourth-placed teams will earn $350,000 and $300,000 respectively.
Additionally, quarter-finalists will each receive $200,000, third-placed teams in the group stages will take home $150,000, and fourth-placed teams will collect $125,000.
The 2024 WAFCON kicks off this weekend with hosts Morocco taking on Zambia in the tournament’s curtain-raiser. Ghana’s Black Queens face a tough opening fixture against defending champions South Africa on Monday, July 7.
The significant prize money boost is expected to further motivate teams and spotlight the growing professionalism and competitive spirit in African women’s football.
With rising global attention and increasing investment, the 2024 WAFCON promises to be a watershed moment for the women’s game on the continent.
