Isha Johansen urges Africa to back women’s football

Isha Johansen has called on African football to turn the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations into lasting support for the women’s game. The tournament’s conclusion, she argues, should mark the start of stronger structures, sustained funding and more opportunities for young players rather than the end of the conversation.

The competition was staged in Rabat, Casablanca and Fes with 16 teams involved. Television and sponsorship income rose by 40%, while matches reached more than 100 channels. The tournament also benefited from growing engagement among young supporters on platforms including TikTok and Instagram. Johansen says those signs show that women’s football has commercial potential beyond charitable or corporate social-responsibility initiatives.

The Confederation of African Football doubled the tournament’s prize fund to $5.8 million, including $2 million for the champions. Nigeria’s NWFL Premiership secured a 10-year private partnership worth 20 billion naira, while South Africa’s women’s league gained a 17 million rand naming-rights agreement. Globally, women’s sport revenue is expected to reach at least $3 billion in 2026, up 340% in four years.

Johansen also points to unresolved gaps. Leading African players continue to move to Europe and the United States, where pay and conditions are stronger. Women remain underrepresented in sports leadership and coaching, while funding in much of the continent still relies on federations, governments and a small group of sponsors. She says progress will depend on regular local support, broadcast income and mentoring, with coaches such as South Africa’s Desiree Ellis and Kenya’s Beldine Odemba demonstrating what greater opportunity can produce.