Fans inspired by talent at CAF U17 Girls Integrated Football Tournament (GIFT)

The CAF U17 Girls Integrated Football Tournament (GIFT) is not just inspiring the players on the pitch to pursue a career in the game, but also some of those in the stands at the Azam Complex Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

Another ground-breaking initiative in CAF’s ongoing Women’s Football Development strategy, the CAF U17 GIFT tournament was introduced as a pilot project in the CECAFA region to diversify the football offering on the continent and promote the emergence of new talent.

A week into the competition and it is certainly doing that, with some scintillating displays and entertaining games for spectators to take in. That has proven an inspiration to many.

“I am happy to see the talent of these girls, they are playing very well,” said local fan Rajabu Rahem Kambona, who has attended several fixtures. “This means they have a bright future in the game and can be great players, going on to have successful careers.

“The fact this tournament is live on TV means they are exposed to a broader audience and that adds value to their experience. It shows that football is not just for boys, but also girls. That we can see from the CAF U17 GIFT competition.”

The seven competing teams are made up of clubs from hosts Tanzania (two), Kenya (two), Burundi, Uganda and South Sudan, and the support from the stands has been felt by all players in Dar es Salaam. 

“It’s good that all fans are here to support every team, regardless of which country they come from,” Kambona said.

“There are some players that have impressed me more the others, especially Winifrida Gerald, Janeth Matulanga (both JKT Queens), Brenda Awuor and Jane Sakwa (Kenya Elite Junior Academy). 

“But in generally the tournament contains a lot of talented players who have inspired me to keep coming to watch games.”

The tournament is live on CAF’s YouTube channel, CAF TV and can also be followed across CAF’s digital platforms through #U17GIFT2025 

For more on CAF Safeguarding and Women’s Football development, visit www.cafonline.com