The SASOL-sponsored Banyana Banyana conquered the African continent for the first time last month when they defeated hosts Morocco by 2-1 in the final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
On Tuesday, Sports Minister Tebogo Mthethwa told a press conference at South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (Sascoc) headquarters in Rosebank President Cyril Ramaphosa had requested the reward be bumped up.
South African Football Association (SAFA) president Dr Danny Jordaan, CEO Advocate and COO Lydia Monyepao were also in attendance when Mthethwa applauded coach Desiree Ellis, her players, the members of the technical team and support staff after the team’s triumph last month.
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While several players are either out of the country or have commitments elsewhere with their clubs, Banyana Banyana were represented by co-captain Andile Dlamini and Thembi Kgatlana.
“So significant was this Banyana Banyana feat, particularly coming at a time when we, as a country, have made the positive role played by women in uplifting society, the focus of our activities, the team was invited to share their victory with the President of the country, Mr Cyril Ramaphosa, at a celebration he hosted at the Union Buildings, shortly after their arrival.” The Minister said.
“The President, noting the public calls for more funds to be channelled to the team, immediately asked that the R5,8million promised by the Department, be increased by a considerable amount. Today I am pleased to announce that the National Government’s contribution to the team, has been increased to R15 million.
“Knowing how generous South Africans are, I have no doubt more corporates will follow the example of Sasol and later Hollywoodbets, to invest in women’s football.”
SAFA president Dr Danny Jordaan said it was important for women sports stars to be rewarded.
“This is unprecedented.” Dr Jordaan said.
“For the first time you have the president of the country making a commitment to give them a bonus, the minister of sport doing the same, the federation doing the same, the provincial governments in our country doing the same.”
Dr Jordaan thanked the provincial governments for also stepping up and rewarding the players.
“I am very happy that we can stand here and celebrate this special recognition of women’s football and the achievement of Banyana Banyana. Even on the continent, no team that has won the WAFCON has been given such recognition and support.”
Dr Jordaan revealed the five-time Wafcon runners-up have established themselves in global football after winning the WAFCON to such an extent that several other countries are keen to also face the continental champions.
On the other hand, an elated Ellis thanked the minister and government, saying the gesture was big encouragement for women in football.
“To my players, I just want to say if you put up performances like this, you will always be rewarded.” Ellis said.
“I cannot thank the minister and the president enough. And I’m sure the players do as well.
Goalkeeper Andile Dlamini said the team was grateful to the government.
“On behalf of Banyana, I would like to thank the president and the minister for the R15m.” She said.
“This has changed our lives. And it’s still going to change our lives, and will encourage young girls who are playing football.
“I would like to thank the South Africans who have been rallying behind us.”