The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has introduced new coaching requirements designed to strengthen the development and representation of women in African women’s football.
In a directive issued to member associations, CAF announced that all female tournaments and women’s teams under its jurisdiction must include at least one female coach on their technical bench.
Under the new regulation, either the Head Coach or the Assistant Coach must be a woman, provided she meets the required coaching qualifications for the role. CAF emphasized that the appointed female coach must satisfy the same licensing and competency standards applicable to the position, in accordance with existing CAF coaching certification regulations.
The directive forms part of CAF’s broader strategy to promote gender inclusion, enhance technical standards in women’s football, and expand professional opportunities for qualified female coaches across the continent.
Member associations and participating clubs have been urged to comply with the new policy ahead of upcoming women’s competitions, as CAF continues its drive to professionalize and elevate the women’s game in Africa.