The 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), set to begin on Saturday, July 5 in Morocco, promises to be the most lucrative and competitive edition in the tournament’s history following a major increase in prize money. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has doubled the winners’ payout and significantly raised the total prize pool, a move that is expected to elevate the profile of women’s football on the continent.
Twelve teams will compete in this year’s edition, including defending champions South Africa, record nine-time winners Nigeria, hosts Morocco, as well as DR Congo, Senegal, Zambia, Algeria, Botswana, Tunisia, Ghana, Mali, and Tanzania. All teams will now be playing not just for continental glory, but also for a significantly bigger financial incentive.
CAF has confirmed that the winning team will now pocket $1 million (approximately Ksh130 million), double the $500,000 (Ksh64.7 million) awarded to the champions in the last edition. The runners-up will now receive that previous top prize of $500,000, while the third-place team will be awarded $350,000 (Ksh45.3 million). The fourth-place finisher will walk away with $300,000 (Ksh39 million).
The prize distribution extends deep into the tournament rankings. Each of the eight quarter-finalists will receive $200,000 (Ksh26 million), a substantial reward for reaching the knockout stages. Even teams that fail to advance beyond the group stage will not leave empty-handed. Those finishing third in their group will get $150,000 (Ksh19.4 million), while fourth-placed group finishers will collect $125,000 (Ksh16.2 million).
CAF’s president highlighted the importance of this financial boost, saying the increase is aimed at directly improving the salaries and conditions of women football players, coaches, and staff across the continent. The decision to inject more funds into WAFCON underscores CAF’s growing commitment to the women’s game, acknowledging the rising standards and increasing popularity of women’s football in Africa.
The 2024 tournament is anticipated to break new ground in terms of broadcasting viewership, sponsorship, and fan engagement. With rising stars ready to make their mark and established teams looking to assert their dominance, the tournament in Morocco is poised to be a celebration of African women’s football excellence.
This year’s bumper prize pool is not only a reward for performance but a statement of intent from CAF to push African women’s football into a new era of professionalism, visibility, and financial stability.
