Banyana Banyana head to Morocco aiming to defend WAFCON title and inspire girls through Goals 4 Pads campaign

South Africa's senior women's national football team, Banyana Banyana, departed for Morocco on Saturday determined to defend their Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title while also championing a social initiative aimed at empowering young girls.

Supporters gathered at OR Tambo International Airport to give the reigning African champions a spirited farewell, with well-known football supporter Mama Joy Chauke leading fans in songs and chants as the squad embarked on its continental campaign.

The tournament not only offers South Africa the opportunity to retain the trophy they won in 2022 but also marks the opening phase of qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil.

The team's departure follows the announcement of head coach Dr Desiree Ellis' final 26-player squad, which blends experienced campaigners with six players set to make their WAFCON debut.

Ellis acknowledged that selecting the squad was a difficult process but expressed confidence that the combination of youth and experience would strengthen South Africa's title defence.

She said the team was well balanced and prepared for the challenges ahead, adding that the opening Group B fixture against Tanzania would be crucial in setting the tone for the tournament. Banyana Banyana will also face Côte d'Ivoire and Burkina Faso during the group stage.

Off the field, the team will also drive the newly launched Goals 4 Pads campaign, a partnership between the South African Football Association (SAFA) and Stayfree. Through the initiative, 1,000 packs of sanitary pads will be donated to schools, football academies and community organisations for every goal scored by Banyana Banyana during the tournament.

SAFA Chief Executive Officer Lydia Monyepao said the campaign goes beyond sponsorship, highlighting the financial challenges many young girls face in accessing sanitary products.

She said the lack of menstrual hygiene products often prevents girls from participating fully in sport, and the initiative aims to remove that obstacle while encouraging greater participation in women's football.

According to Monyepao, expanding opportunities for girls to play football remains one of SAFA's key priorities in growing the women's game.

Stayfree Brand Manager Zamashandu Mbatha said supporting Banyana Banyana was an opportunity to invest in women's sport while making a meaningful social impact.

She described the national team as a source of inspiration for young girls across the country, saying they embody resilience, determination and hope.

SAFA Vice-President Anastasia Tsichlas praised the team's influence on women's football, saying Banyana Banyana have transformed perceptions of the sport and continue to motivate young girls to dream of representing South Africa on the international stage.