Meskerem Goshime: architect of a Women’s Football Revolution in Africa
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – Since taking the helm of women’s football development at the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in 2021, Meskerem Goshime has been a driving force behind a seismic shift, transforming the landscape of the sport across the continent. Her strategic initiatives, from launching a prestigious Champions League to championing the rise of female coaches and significantly boosting prize money, are not just changing the game; they are rewriting its very narrative for African women.
Goshime, a trailblazer in a male-dominated arena, has navigated the complexities of the football world with remarkable fortitude. “The football environment is dominated by men, and I was the only woman in a development team,” she reflects. “To gain acceptance, you must learn to manage situations, to be strong, to be courageous to speak.” This courage has fueled her aspiring vision.
Under her leadership, CAF’s Women’s Football program has seen unprecedented growth. The inaugural CAF Women’s Champions League, featuring eight clubs from 33 associations, marked a watershed moment.The commitment to progress is evident in the substantial increase in prize money, with the 2024 champions set to recieve $600,000 – a staggering rise of over 50%. These concrete advancements underscore Africa’s burgeoning ambition for its women’s football.
But Goshime’s vision extends far beyond the pitch. Her objective is to ensure women have equal access to coaching roles and decision-making positions. The “gift U-17” initiative (Girls Integrated Football Tournament), launched in 2025 under her guidance, exemplifies this commitment. Already, over 21 federations have successfully trained female coaches and supervisors through this program, which also serves as a vital platform for identifying young talent. CAF data reveals a remarkable surge, with over 150,000 players now registered, supported by 4,000 coaches and nearly 5,000 women referees across Africa.
“One of the things I really learned from my role as Female Football Administrator was that ‘no’ is not the final answer,” Goshime shares. “Return again, make yoru proposal or program accessible, show that your program can have an impact.” This persistent,impact-driven approach has been key to her success.
The momentum continues with major competitions. The 2024 Women’s africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) saw a record 12 nations participate, garnering notable media attention and featuring technical workshops in partnership with FIFPro. The overarching ambition is clear: to professionalize the sector and build a robust pathway for girls, from the grassroots to the highest echelons of football governance. meskerem Goshime’s meticulous, step-by-step building process is steadily elevating African women’s football to its rightful place on the global stage.
Similar Articles:
[Link to another relevant article on women’s sports development]
[Link to an article about CAF’s recent football initiatives]
* [Link to a profile of another influential figure in african sports]
