South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Gayton McKenzie, has declared that the country is prepared to step in and host the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations if the need arises amid uncertainties surrounding the tournament.
McKenzie stated that South Africa has the facilities, infrastructure and experience required to successfully organise the competition should Confederation of African Football decide to move the tournament.
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“South Africa is ready to host the WAFCON if necessary,” McKenzie said.
The minister emphasized that the country has world-class stadiums and logistical capacity that could easily accommodate a continental tournament of such magnitude.
“We have the stadiums and the facilities needed to organise the competition,” he explained.
McKenzie also expressed frustration with the uncertainty surrounding the tournament, stressing that women’s football deserves better planning and respect across the continent.
“Women’s football should not be treated the way it is currently being treated,” he noted.
According to him, the growth of the women’s game in Africa depends heavily on the proper organisation of major tournaments such as WAFCON.
“These competitions are important for the development of women’s football,” he added.
The minister further stated that South Africa would not allow the progress of the women’s game to be stalled by delays or administrative uncertainties.
“We will not allow women’s football to be held hostage,” he stressed.
South Africa, whose national team South Africa women’s national football team are among the top teams on the continent, has hosted several major international sporting events in the past, including the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
McKenzie concluded by reaffirming that South Africa stands ready to support African football if required.
“If called upon, we are ready to host and deliver a successful tournament,” he said.
