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Paradigm Initiative Condemns, Urges Immediate Restoration Of Social Media Services In Gabon

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo Paradigm Initiative (PIN) a prominent digital rights watchdog has condemned and called for the immediate restoration…

Tech

Registration Opens For 2026 Digital Rights & Inclusion Forum In Côte d’Ivoire

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo Digital Rights and Inclusion Forum (DRIF26) has been scheduled to take place from April 14 to…

General

Cameroon, Belgium & Italy Signed Financial Agreement To Reconfigure Yaounde Drinking Water Supply System

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo The governments of Cameroon, Belgium, and Italy have entered into a financial agreement and market contracts…

Society

NGO, 1Billion Rising, Stress Prevention, Listening As keys To Recovery From Youth Addiction

By Desmond Mbua The non-governmental organization 1 Billion Rising in Cameroon has launched a strong appeal to confront addiction with…

Cameroon Women, Youth Plead for Dialogue After Election Unrest

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

A coalition of women and youth groups, known as the Platform Cameroon Women and Youths Consultation for National Dialogue, has called on highest state authorities and political actors to demonstrate responsibility, maturity and a republican spirit by prioritizing consultation and the peaceful resolution of all electoral disputes.

WILPF in action

The initiative, led by the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom, WILPF, issued the call in a document signed by more than 300 youths and women on Oct. 29. The group is urging restraint, nonviolence, dialogue and social justice following post-election violence.

Fully aware of the essential role that women and youth play in maintaining and consolidating peace and building a fairer, more sustainable society, the initiative also called on the defense and security forces to carry out their duties professionally, with full respect for human rights and the dignity of citizens.

They also urged religious, traditional, opinion and community leaders to actively engage in inclusive mediation, peacebuilding and social cohesion, while calling on all citizens to reject manipulation, hate speech, incitement to violence and any form of communal stigmatization.

The statement appealed to the media and digital actors to use their influence to promote truth, tolerance and unity. It also called on international partners to support national efforts for dialogue, mediation, civic education and social justice.

The women and youth of Cameroon, united beyond ideological, cultural and religious differences, reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to defend peace and social justice as essential foundations of coexistence, and to promote inclusive and constructive dialogue among all components of the nation.

Their unwavering commitment is also geared toward protecting the rights and dignity of every Cameroonian, especially the most vulnerable; working toward civic education and awareness to prevent hatred, violence and division; and encouraging fair and participatory governance as a guarantee of national cohesion and sustainable development.

They indicated they firmly believe that no victory is worth the loss of a single human life, concluding that Cameroon, “our common heritage, must remain a land of peace, dialogue, social justice and mutual respect.”

“We truly expect the authorities to listen to the people’s grievances and take decisive measures to save the nation,” the statement said.

The call for restraint, nonviolence, dialogue and social justice comes after the tensions, violence and hate speech shaking the nation following the presidential election of Oct. 12.

Since the election, Cameroon has witnessed a worrying rise in incidents: loss of human lives, destruction of public and private property, mass arrests, enforced disappearances, kidnappings, intimidation, hate speech and incitement to violence, incivility, tribal and political hatred, as well as threats of clashes between citizens and security forces.

These incidents have been reported in Douala, Bafang, Nkongsamba, Bafoussam, Mandjou, Bertoua, Garoua, Maroua, Ngong, Yaoundé, Guider, Batouri, Dschang, Mbouda, Melong, Mokolo and Bandja, among other locations.

 

CAF, Puma Unveil ‘ITRI’ as Official Match Ball for 2025 TotalEnergies AFCON Morocco

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Confederation of Africa Football (CAF) and global sports brand Puma have unveiled “ITRI” as the official match ball for the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON in Morocco.

“ITRI”, official match ball for the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco (Photo Credit: CAF)

The ball, whose name is inspired by the star on the Moroccan flag and patterns in traditional zellij art, blends Moroccan craftsmanship with advanced performance technology.

“Created for the rhythm of African football, the AFCON 2025 ball brings together art, motion, and a design shaped by African spirit and Moroccan craftsmanship,” said Mohamed Ghonemi, Creative Development Manager at CAF. “It’s been a privilege to collaborate with Puma on something that unites every nation at the tournament.”

Peter Dangl, Director EEMEA Distribution at Puma, noted that ITRI “is a true symbol of African football’s spirit. Combining Moroccan artistry with advanced performance technology, ITRI celebrates both the host nation’s heritage and the unity of the continent.”

The striking aesthetic of the ITRI ball features traditional Moroccan zellij geometric patterns, specifically characterized by central star geometry, floral petal outlines, and circular symmetry.

These elements are highly symbolic: the star geometry represents ambition and the pursuit of excellence; the petal shapes signify celebration, growth, and the festive spirit of the AFCON; and the circular symmetry reflects the unity of the 24 nations competing in the tournament.

Furthermore, the design incorporates ‘Flow of Movement’ patterns to capture the dynamic playing style distinctive of African football. The color palette of red and green was chosen to express passion, hope, and pride while simultaneously paying homage to Morocco’s national colors.

The ball is built on Puma’s advanced Orbita 6 technology, seamlessly blending cultural heritage with innovation to deliver the performance standards required for elite-level competition.

The ITRI ball will make its debut in the opening match of the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025 tournament, which kicks off on Dec. 21, 2025, bringing together the continent’s best footballing nations.

The design process began shortly after Morocco was confirmed as the host nation, progressing through stages of cultural research, creative explorations, performance testing, and refinement, ensuring it authentically reflects Moroccan artistry while resonating across the continent.

The official ITRI match ball is available for purchase in regionally relevant markets for a recommended retail price of €130.00.

MINESEC Launches Catch-Up Lessons Initiative for Secondary School Students

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Minister of Secondary Education, MINESEC, Prof. Nalova Lyonga, has announced a new initiative aimed at providing catch-up lessons for secondary school students across the country.

Prof. Nalova Lyonga, Minister of Secondary Education (Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

This initiative, organized by the Distance Learning Center, seeks to ensure that all students achieve parity in teaching coverage, especially in light of recent disruptions to their education.

In a communiqué released on November 7, Minister Lyonga detailed that the catch-up lessons will commence on November 10. These lessons are designed to prepare students adequately for their academic progression, reinforcing essential knowledge that may have been impacted during the interruptions.

The lessons will focus on core subjects across both the General and Technical Education streams, catering to a wide range of academic needs. Students, parents, and educators can find additional information, including schedules and access instructions, on the official Distance Learning website: distance-learning.minesec.gov.cm.

Minister Lyonga has emphasized the importance of collaboration among all educational stakeholders, urging Regional Delegates, school principals, and teachers to work closely with the Distance Learning Center.

She expressed her confidence that with the collective commitment of educators, parents, and students, this initiative can be a success, ensuring that no learner is left behind in the national education process.

According to education experts, this proactive step by MINESEC reflects a dedication to maintaining educational standards and supporting students during these challenging times.

As the country navigates the complexities of educational continuity, the Minister’s call for unity and cooperation serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility in fostering an inclusive learning environment.

 

Nso Youths Stun Melim United In BSFC Upset

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The fifth match day of the Bui Sports Fans Competition delivered the biggest shock of the tournament so far, as highly favored Melim United suffered a stunning 1-0 defeat. The result sent ripples through the league standings, injecting fresh drama into the race for qualification.

Nso Youths and Melim United facing each other (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Nso Youths FC of Nkolmeseng registered their long-awaited first win of the competition by edging out giants Melim United 1-0. Melim United, who had been confidently tipped for victory, instead ran into a rejuvenated and disciplined Nso Youths squad. What was anticipated to be an easy outing for the favorites quickly turned into a tense, hard-fought battle.

Nso Youths exhibited impeccable defensive discipline, completely neutralizing Melim’s attack and successfully ending the first half in a scoreless deadlock.

The decisive moment arrived early in the second half. Nso Youths emerged with renewed spirit and attacking intent, and their efforts were rewarded when they broke the deadlock in the 49th minute from the penalty spot.

Nso Youths and Melim United facing each other (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The lone goal held fast, even as light rain began to fall, doing nothing to dampen the intensity on the pitch. Melim United fought desperately for an equalizer, launching waves of attacks, but each attempt was successfully thwarted by the resolute Nso Youths defense and a determined goalkeeper.

In the final, frantic minutes, Melim United pressed relentlessly, but the final whistle confirmed the 1-0 upset. Crucially, the victory serves as sweet revenge for Nso Youths, who had previously lost 1-0 to Melim United in their first meeting of the competition, proving they are now a formidable threat moving forward.

 

Chitah FC & Dzekwa Rangers Share Spoils

In the second fixture of the day, Chitah FC and Dzekwa Rangers played out an anticipatedly close contest that ended in a 1-1 draw. Both teams knew a win was vital for their standings, leading to a match of intense control and high-performance football.

The first half was a tense spectacle that kept fans on the edge of their seats, though neither side could find the back of the net, ending goalless.

Chitah FC and Dzekwa Rangers fighting for supremacy (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Dzekwa Rangers, however, started the second half with immediate purpose. After an initial attempt was saved, they capitalized on the pressure, breaking the deadlock in the 51st minute.

Despite taking the lead, Dzekwa Rangers could not maintain their advantage against a persistent Chitah FC. Seeking their first win of the tournament, Chitah FC continued to press hard and finally leveled the score in the 68th minute to make it 1-1. Fierce attacking from both sides in the final stages of the match failed to change the scoreline, forcing a 1-1 split of the points.

 

Standings Tighten Ahead Of Final Round

The day’s results have significantly tightened the general classification table heading into the final day of the first round.

Chitah FC and Dzekwa Rangers fighting for supremacy (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Dzekwa Rangers continue to top the standings with 7 points. Melim United remains in second place with 6 points. Chitah FC and Nso Youths both now sit on 5 points, separated only by goal differential.

Day Six marks the final playing day of the first round, where teams will battle fiercely for the last available spots in the next round of the competition. The focus will be on the 5-point teams to see who can secure a vital victory to advance.

Hon. Cavaye Calls Re-Elected Paul Biya A ‘Man Of Peace’

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Speaker of the National Assembly, Cavaye Yeguie Djibril, described re-elected President Paul Biya as a “man of peace” during the president’s swearing-in ceremony on Wednesday.

Hon. Cavaye speaking during the swearing in ceremony (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The speaker made the remarks on Nov. 6 during the swearing-in ceremony, which was attended by numerous national and international dignitaries.

“A true democrat is an apostle of peace,” Cavaye said. “Mr. President, I see you as a man of peace, the beggar of peace that you are and have always been.”

Cavaye indicated that the recent election has “given its verdict,” affirming that Cameroonians democratically made their choice.

“A true democratic society like ours makes its choice in the ballot box and not on the streets and, worse still, in social media — the locus of social ills,” he said. “A true democrat does not resort to manipulation or seek to destabilize the country.”

He continued, saying Biya was “incontestably re-elected by your compatriots in recognition of your patriotism.” He added that Biya has “devoted your entire life to serve your country by relieving it of the yoke that hampered its forward march to prosperity.”

The speaker also commended Biya for offering the National Assembly Building (an “architectural marvel”) to the people. He noted that elected representatives are “profoundly grateful” that Biya accepted, for the first time in his career, to have a public edifice named after him.

“Frankly, I have always admired you as a venerable political figure, a patriarch and the wise man of Africa for the several years we have worked together,” Cavaye said.

He noted the historical coincidence that Biya first took the oath of office as president on Nov. 6, 1982.

“Forty-three years after, we have, once more, assembled here today, Nov. 6, 2025, for the same swearing-in ceremony,” he stated.

President Paul Biya Pledges Order, A Youth-Women Focused Agenda In Inaugural Address

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

President Paul Biya was sworn in for his eighth term on November 6, assuring Cameroonians that order will prevail and outlining a new term focused on youth employment and national unity.

President Paul Biya Speaking during the Swearing in ceremony (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The swearing-in ceremony, which took place at the Cameroon Lower House of the National Assembly, was presided over by the President of the National Assembly, Hon. Cavaye Yeguie Djibril, and attended by the nation’s high-ranking officials.

Speaking to Cameroonians, President Biya directly addressed the post-election instability, which he attributed to “the actions of some irresponsible politicians.” He condemned the “unprecedented scenes of looting and vandalism” that led to the destruction of property, attacks on security forces, and a tragic loss of human lives.

“It is my responsibility to ensure that order is maintained,” H.E. Paul Biya stated. “I can assure you that order will prevail. Cameroon will keep forging ahead.”

He praised the courage and professionalism of the Defence and Security Forces and extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. The President also issued a strong appeal to the sense of responsibility of all citizens, particularly singling out “some of our compatriots in the diaspora” who he accused of seeking to fuel hatred and violence. He warned that Cameroon cannot afford a devastating post-election crisis like those witnessed elsewhere.

Expressing his deepest gratitude to the people of Cameroon for their trust, President Biya pledged to remain worthy of their confidence. He warmly congratulated the electoral body, ELECAM, for successfully meeting the formidable challenge of organizing the election and commended the vast majority of Cameroonians for their commitment to peace.

Parliamentarians clap during the swearing in ceremony (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Looking forward, the President declared that the time for electioneering is over, calling on all citizens to join him in a united front. “This country is our shared heritage,” he said. “Rather than destroying it, we have to build, strengthen and modernize it. We should end the hate speech flooding the public space, especially social media.”

A central theme of his speech was a renewed focus on the situation of young people and women. He announced that one of his main objectives is to promote greater youth and women empowerment and protection.

To this end, he has decided to reinstate the competitive entrance examinations for admission into higher teachers’ training colleges and resume doctoral studies in universities during the ongoing academic year.

He added that in the early months of his seven-year term, a special youth employment promotion plan will be established. This plan will provide administrative and tax facilities for private enterprises that commit to recruiting young people.

The government will also strengthen support for youths in designing and financing their projects through partnerships with local banks and international donors.

President Paul Biya waves during the Swearing in ceremony (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

President Biya added that starting from the next financial year, a portion of the State’s investment budget will be allocated to labor-intensive projects benefiting youths nationwide, to be implemented in collaboration with regional and local authorities.

On security, the President acknowledged the ongoing challenges in the North-West, South-West, and Far North regions. While noting that government-led reconstruction efforts are paving the way for a gradual return to normalcy, he urged traditional rulers and community elites to engage more deeply in raising awareness among armed groups, encouraging them to lay down their arms and enter the DDR programme.

He extended gratitude to friendly countries that have begun pursuing the sponsors of these criminal acts and encouraged other international partners to follow suit. “Terrorism is a global scourge that must be combated vigorously wherever it shows its ugly face,” he said.

 

SRHR At A Crossroads: Global Health Innovation And Inequality Collide, Study Reveals

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

A new study released by the World Health Organization, The Lancet, the Guttmacher Institute, Rutgers and Community Collectives has revealed that global Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, SRHR, stands at a crossroads where innovation and inequality collide.

The evidence was unveiled at the International Conference on Family Planning (ICFP 2025), running Nov. 3-6 in Bogotá. Amid what is being called the most turbulent year for reproductive rights in a generation, the research shows global progress at a tipping point with financing gaps widening, access stalling, and communities stepping in to fill the void.

More than 3,500 delegates from 120 countries are meeting from Nov. 3-6, 2025, for the Seventh ICFP, where data released this week reveal both momentum and fragility for SRHR.

“Evidence is only as powerful as the action it inspires,” said Dr. Philip Anglewicz, director of the William H. Gates Sr. Institute and chair of the ICFP 2025 International Steering Committee. “This week, the global SRHR community is proving that research can do more than describe the world—it can change it.”

Several major studies anchor the ICFP 2025 scientific agenda this year: The Lancet / WHO Global SRHR Analysis, led by Dr. Saifuddin Ahmed, shows that sustained SRHR investment lowers maternal mortality, advances gender parity and strengthens national resilience.

“We are seeing what happens when data meets determination,” Ahmed said. “Investment in SRHR doesn’t just save lives; it strengthens economies, protects rights and builds the resilience societies need in times of crisis.”

Also released at ICFP 2025, two new Guttmacher Institute studies—Adding It Up and FP-Impact—show that investing in family planning is both lifesaving and economically smart. Meeting all SRHR needs in low- and middle-income countries would cost $104 billion annually but save $2.48 in health costs for every $1 spent. The findings also show contraceptive use increases women’s paid employment by up to 12% in countries like Kenya and Nigeria.

“Family planning doesn’t just save lives—it transforms women’s economic prospects,” said Onikepe Owolabi, vice president for international research at Guttmacher.

FP2030 Country Commitments also reveal encouraging momentum: Ghana, Kenya and Bangladesh have pledged to expand access to modern contraception and increase domestic financing, signaling renewed accountability toward 2030 targets.

“Countries see the evidence: family planning remains a development best buy,” said Dr. Samukeliso Dube, executive director of FP2030. “It’s worth prioritizing.”

Rutgers’ Comparative Study on Abortion Access in Central Africa, co-funded by the European Union, examines access for survivors of sexual violence, mapping legal and health-system barriers and emerging rights-based strategies in restrictive contexts.

In July, a Guttmacher analysis warned that more than 70 percent of global family-planning funding depends on a small group of donors, including nearly 40 percent  from the United States, leaving millions vulnerable if political priorities shift.

The Donors Delivering for SRHR 2025 analysis by DSW and the European Parliamentary Forum for Sexual & Reproductive Rights (EPF) shows that donor disbursements fell 27 percent in 2023 to $10.77 billion, just 4.3 percent of total official development assistance (ODA).

Despite rising overall aid, SRHR’s share continues to shrink, exposing widening gaps between political promises and financial realities. European donors provided roughly €1.65 billion in 2023, while domestic budgets in many low- and middle-income countries remain too limited to sustain essential services without external support.

As the data converge in Bogotá, ICFP 2025 stands as a checkpoint for SRHR accountability and ambition. The evidence reveals a world in motion defined by extraordinary innovation but shadowed by deep inequity and uneven political will.

From AI-driven health tools to youth-led movements and community-based financing models, progress is being redefined not only by what governments invest but by how communities adapt and lead.

“We have more data than ever before,” said Marta Royo, executive director of Profamilia. “But what will define the next decade is not how much we know, but how boldly we act. Evidence must drive equity—and equity must drive everything else.”

Throughout the week, ICFP 2025 will unveil new data releases and policy commitments shaping the future of SRHR. Daily updates, press briefings and interviews are available through the FPNN Media Lab and the ICFP press room.

President-Elect, Paul Biya To Be Sworn In For Eighth Term After Contested Election

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The President-Elect, His Excellency Paul Biya, the incumbent President of the Republic of Cameroon who has been in power since 1982, is scheduled to take the oath of office on November 6.

Paul Biya, President Elect of the Republic of Cameroon

This information was officially released on November 4 by the Minister, Director of the Civil Cabinet at the Presidency of the Republic, Samuel Mvondo Ayolo.

The swearing-in ceremony will take place at the Paul Biya Glass House (the National Assembly building in Yaoundé), as is tradition. The Upper and Lower House of the National Assembly will be in session.

The upcoming event will mark the official start of President Biya’s eighth term in office. This mandate follows his victory in the Presidential Election that took place on October 12.

The contested poll saw the long-serving leader face a field of eleven other candidates. The results of the election were a source of significant national tension.

Before the Constitutional Council officially declared Paul Biya as the winner, a close rival, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, had prematurely declared himself victorious, setting the stage for a contentious political aftermath.

Following the disputed election results, the country experienced post-election violence, including protests, destruction, and looting in several regions, tragically resulting in the killing of citizens.

These events underscore the deep political fault lines and public discontent surrounding the longevity of the current administration.

President Paul Biya’s continuous time in power dates back to 1982, making him one of the world’s longest-serving heads of state.

This new seven-year term further solidifies his decades-long control over the Central African nation’s political landscape.

Hon. Cavaye Celebrates Candidates’ Dignified Acceptance Of Defeat

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Speaker of Cameroon’s National Assembly, Hon. Cavaye Yeguie Djibril, on Monday commended presidential candidates who “accepted defeat with dignity” following the October 2025 election.

Hon. Cavaye Yeguie Djibril speaking during the opening ceremony (Photo Credit: National Assembly)

Hon. Cavaye made the remarks Nov. 3 while opening the third ordinary session of Parliament for the 2025 Legislative Year at the Paul Biya Glass House in Yaounde.

The session, which Hon. Cavaye presided over, has two critical items on its agenda: the swearing-in of President-elect Paul Biya and the review and adoption of the state budget for the 2026 financial year.

Hon. Cavaye specifically hailed the defeated candidates who “congratulate[d] the winner” but condemned the actions of one candidate who allegedly incited “civil disobedience” and called on citizens, particularly youths, to “contest the election results, foment disorder and destroy private and public property.”

Cross Section of Parliamentarian during the opening ceremony  (Photo Credit: National Assembly)

The speaker noted that the unrest “inadvertently resulted in loss of lives,” including that of a fellow lawmaker, Honorable ABE Michael NDRA, who he said was “brutally murdered.”

Hon. Cavaye extended condolences to the bereaved families and praised the security forces for their “professionalism” in maintaining peace and stability.

While congratulating President Biya on his Oct. 12 election victory, Hon. Cavaye stated that the vote was “conducted in a calm and peaceful atmosphere throughout the national territory,” save for “a few cases of vandalism.” He also recognized the stakeholders whose efforts contributed to the election’s success.

Ministers Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh and Paul Atanga Nji speaking on the sideline of the opening ceremony of the November Session (Photo Credit: National Assembly)

Hon. Cavaye credited President Biya for promulgating the 1990 laws that introduced public liberties, including the freedom of expression and the creation of political parties.

“The advent of multi-party politics in Cameroon is also credited to the same liberty laws,” Hon. Cavaye said, emphasizing that the multi-party platform enabled multiple candidates to run for office. He cited the Oct. 12 presidential election as a “classic example of political pluralism and democracy in Cameroon.”

Hon. Cavaye Yeguie Djibril and Prime Minister, Chief Dr. Dion Ngute during the opening ceremony of the November session (Photo Credit: National Assembly)

Addressing the 2026 State Budget, the speaker said it would be the first of the president’s new seven-year term under the “Great Hope” policy.

He expressed his wish that the budget be realistic, conform to the head of state’s policy guidelines, and fully meet the aspirations of the people who renewed their confidence in Biya.

CAF Expands Women’s Africa Cup Of Nations To 16 Teams, Boosting Cameroon And Others

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has expanded the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) from 12 to 16 teams, a move that will reinstate four traditional powerhouses, including the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon, for the upcoming 2026 tournament.

CAF WAFCON Trophy (Photo Credit: CAF)

CAF announced in a communique that its Executive Committee approved the enlargement of the WAFCON, starting with the next edition in 2026.

This decision effectively grants a reprieve to several prominent teams that had missed out on qualification under the previous 12-team structure.

To ensure fairness following the conclusion of the initial qualification process, CAF stated it would select the “four best-ranked teams according to the current FIFA Women’s World Ranking, among those eliminated in the final qualifying round,” to complete the 16-team field.

Consequently, Cameroon (ranked 66th globally), Côte d’Ivoire (71st), Mali (79th), and Egypt (95th) have been reinstated. They will join the 12 teams that secured qualification on the pitch, including holders Nigeria and former champions South Africa.

The expansion is a significant development for Cameroon, which was eliminated by Algeria on a 3-1 aggregate and faced what would have been their second consecutive absence from the WAFCON.

This unexpected turn provides a crucial opportunity for the Lionesses, whose new mission will be to reach the semi-finals in March 2026 to secure one of the African spots for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

Côte d’Ivoire narrowly lost to Burkina Faso, while Mali and Egypt were edged out by Equatorial Guinea and Senegal, respectively.

CAF stressed that the expansion reflects its commitment to strengthening women’s football and promoting inclusivity across Africa. The new 16-team format is intended to enhance competition and create broader opportunities for emerging nations, said CAF.

The teams that qualified last week, before the expansion announcement, include Nigeria, South Africa, Algeria, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Senegal, Tanzania, and Zambia. Morocco will participate as hosts.

The WAFCON holds added importance as it serves as the African qualifiers for the 2027 Women’s World Cup, with the top four finishers heading to Brazil. This will be the third Women’s Cup of Nations hosted by Morocco.

Morocco is also set to host the 24-team men’s Africa Cup of Nations finals from Dec. 22 to Jan. 18.

 

16 TEAMS FOR WAFCON 2026:

Qualified: Morocco (Host); Zambia; Tanzania; Malawi; Algeria; Nigeria; Ghana; Burkina Faso; Kenya; South Africa; Cape Verde and Senegal.

Reinstated: Cameroon; Côte d’Ivoire; Mali and Egypt.