The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced a significant increase in prize money ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), raising the overall cash awards by 67 percent from $3.475 million to $5.8 million, with each participating team guaranteed a $150,000 participation fee.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe made the announcement on Thursday, highlighting the importance of investing in women’s football, with financial support playing a key role in the sport’s growth and development.
“The increased prize money demonstrates the federation’s commitment to accelerating the growth of women’s football across Africa,” Motsepe said.
“Since 2021, the winners’ prize at WAFCON has increased tenfold, rising from $200,000 to the current $2 million, while the total tournament prize fund has grown from $975,000 to $5.8 million,” he added.
Despite the increased financial incentives, Kenya’s Harambee Starlets’ preparations for the tournament have been overshadowed by challenges and controversy, including a protest over delayed payments that was later resolved by the government.
Reports have also emerged that the team’s planned training camp in Miramas, France, and intended international friendlies did not take place as scheduled. The team is instead said to be camping in Aix-en-Provence, about 50 kilometres from Miramas.
With the tournament set to kick off on Saturday, July 25, Kenya will begin its campaign against hosts Morocco the following day at Stade Moulay Hassan in Rabat.
Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has shared training footage of the team in France, with no players publicly raising concerns.
Kenya, who return to the continental showpiece for the first time since 2016, are guaranteed $150,000 (approximately KSh19.5 million) regardless of their performance in Morocco.
Should Harambee Starlets win the tournament, they will earn a record $2 million (about KSh258 million), double the previous champions’ prize. The runners-up will receive $750,000, while the third-placed team will take home $500,000.
The move is part of CAF’s continued efforts to strengthen women’s football and improve financial rewards for participating nations.