Ivory Coast Women’s Football Team Honoured with Presidential Reward for AFCON Success
Ivory Coast’s women’s national football team has received a significant financial reward from President Alassane Ouattara following their impressive performance at the African Women’s Cup of Nations held in Namibia.
The team, who secured a historic bronze medal in the tournament, were honoured during an official reception at the presidential palace on Friday. In recognition of their achievement, President Ouattara awarded the squad a total of 110 million CFA francs (approximately £140,000).
This gesture adds to an earlier donation of 10 million CFA francs made by First Lady Dominique Ouattara, bringing the team’s total reward to 120 million CFA francs.
The Elephantes, as they are affectionately known, captured national attention with their spirited campaign during the tournament, showcasing both resilience and talent on their path to a third-place finish.
President Ouattara praised the players for their determination and for raising the profile of Ivorian women’s football on the continental stage. He also used the occasion to reaffirm his government’s support for the development of women’s sport in the country.
The ceremony was seen as a morale boost for women’s football in Ivory Coast, with many hoping this recognition marks the beginning of greater investment and visibility for the women’s game.
The team’s success in Namibia has already inspired a new generation of young girls across the country, as the Elephantes continue to serve as role models in both sport and society.