South Africa has sparked debate across African football circles following mixed signals over the hosting of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The confusion arose after Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Peace Mabe suggested that South Africa had “seized the opportunity” to host the tournament amid speculation that Morocco might withdraw.
Her remarks created the impression that South Africa had already secured the hosting rights.
Moved quickly to clarify
However, the Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture moved quickly to clarify the situation in an official statement.
Speaking in his capacity as minister, Gayton McKenzie stressed that Morocco remains the confirmed host of WAFCON 2026 and that no formal decision has been taken to relocate the tournament.
The ministry explained that South Africa has merely indicated its readiness to step in should the Confederation of African Football (CAF) determine that alternative hosting arrangements are required.
Such discussions, it said, form part of CAF’s standard contingency planning to safeguard the smooth running of major continental competitions.
Depends on several key steps
According to the statement, any potential hosting of WAFCON by South Africa would depend on several key steps, including a formal request from CAF, approval through government and ministerial processes, the identification of suitable host cities, stadiums, accommodation and transport capacity, as well as the signing of government guarantees and operational agreements.
The minister emphasised that the deputy minister’s comments should be understood as reflecting South Africa’s long-standing commitment to African football and confidence in its proven ability to host major international sporting events, rather than an official confirmation of hosting duties.
The ministry added that it will continue working with the South African Football Association and other stakeholders to engage CAF in a structured and responsible manner.
No further announcements will be made until all required processes are completed and official decisions are taken.
Broader strategy
At the time of publication, Morocco’s football federation had not commented on South Africa’s statements.
The ministry concluded by reaffirming South Africa’s broader strategy of pursuing major sporting events to boost tourism, economic growth and the country’s global profile.
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For now, Morocco remains the designated host of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
The tournament is due to run from 17 March to 3 April 2026.
Nigeria are the defending champions.
Only three countries have ever won the tournament in the 13 editions to date. Nigeria have 10 titles to their name, Equatorial Guinea (2) and South Africa (1) in 2022.
The groups for the WAFCON 2026 are as follows
Group A: Morocco, Algeria, Senegal, Kenya
Group B: South Africa, Cote d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, Tanzania
Group C: Nigeria, Zambia, Egypt, Malawi
Group D: Ghana, Cameroon, Mali, Cabo Verde