The global push to expand women’s soccer is driven by FIFA’s implementation of 13 targeted development programs designed to reach an ambitious target of 60 million players by 2027.
Uganda Expands Coaching Pathway
In East Africa, the Federation of Uganda Football Associations has turned its focus toward building the next generation of technical leadership. Backed by FIFA’s group coaching scholarship program, 30 Ugandan participants began an exclusive CAF Level C women’s coaching course in August at the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru. The curriculum combines theoretical instruction with practical field sessions to elevate technical proficiency among local coaches.
Ghana Launches Commercial Strategy
West Africa sees similar institutional momentum as the Ghana Football Association partners with FIFA to roll out a commercial strategy workshop in Accra. As one of 12 member associations chosen for FIFA’s commercial strategy program, Ghana’s initiative aims to boost the financial viability of Women’s Premier League clubs. The initial workshop brings together club leadership, media outlets, and corporate sponsors as part of a phased rollout that will eventually include customized social media and club-level media training.
Milestones in South Sudan and Gambia
South Sudan marked a historic month for its domestic structure with the kickoff of its Women’s Premier League First Division, featuring an opening weekend launch event attended by all 12 competing clubs. Simultaneously, the South Sudan Football Association initiated a 10-day CAF D-License coaching course in Juba funded by FIFA group scholarships, designed specifically to tackle the historical underrepresentation of women in technical staff roles.
Similarly, the Gambia Football Federation hosted its inaugural CAF D-License women’s coaching course at the National Technical Training Centre in Old Yundum, Banjul. Thirty participants from across the country completed the five-day technical program, which was paired with a specialized child safeguarding seminar for all coaches involved in women’s leagues.
India Scales Up Asian Certification
In South Asia, the All India Football Federation is expanding its technical base following a strong 2025 development cycle. Operating out of Kolkata, the federation launched a two-week AFC C-Diploma course for female coaches funded by FIFA group scholarships. The program serves candidates from northern and eastern regions, with a second phase slated for southern and western regions later this year. Organizers project that between 42 and 44 women will secure their AFC C-License credentials by the end of the year in the world’s most populous nation.
Next Steps and Future Development
Member associations will continue rolling out regional licensing blocks and commercial framework phases, moving closer to FIFA’s 2027 participation milestones. Official updates regarding regional development milestones remain available through governing body channels.
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