The Struggles and Rise of Women’s Football in Ethiopia

By Dagim Tekle Former Member, IOC Women and Sport Commission | First Male Winner of the IOC Women and Sport World Trophy (2016)

Introduction: A Game Still Fighting for Equality

In recent years, women’s football across Africa has shown remarkable growth, with countries like Nigeria, South Africa, and Morocco making significant strides on the global stage. However, in Ethiopia, the journey remains complex. Despite undeniable talent and passion, women’s games continue to face systemic challenges rooted in limited investment, structural gaps, and unequal opportunities.

At the center of this conversation is the role of the Ethiopian Football Federation (EFF), whose policies and priorities have often been questioned regarding their commitment to developing women’s football.

Financial Inequality: The Biggest Barrier

One of the most pressing issues is the lack of financial support. Compared to men’s football, women’s teams receive significantly less funding, affecting everything from player salaries to travel arrangements and competition exposure.

Many players in Ethiopia’s women’s league compete without consistent wages, forcing them to balance football with other jobs. This reality undermines professionalism and discourages young talents from pursuing sport seriously. Without adequate investment, growth remains slow and unsustainable.

Infrastructure and Development Gaps

The absence of proper infrastructure is another major challenge. Access to quality training facilities, medical support, and modern equipment is limited. Youth development systems, which are critical for long-term success, are also underdeveloped. Unlike leading African nations, Ethiopia lacks structured academies dedicated to nurturing young female footballers. This gap prevents the country from building a strong pipeline of future stars.

Limited Media Coverage and Visibility

Media plays a crucial role in the growth of any sport. Unfortunately, women’s football in Ethiopia receives minimal coverage. While some dedicated and emerging media outlets are making efforts to highlight women’s football, their work remains limited due to a lack of strong institutional support. Without sponsorship, financial backing, and access to broadcasting platforms, these media initiatives struggle to sustain consistent coverage. As a result, women’s football continues to lack visibility, which directly affects sponsorship opportunities, audience engagement, and overall development of the game.

Gender Inequality in Football Governance

Gender inequality remains deeply embedded within football structures. Women are underrepresented in leadership positions, coaching roles, and decision making bodies.

Although global organizations like FIFA and Confederation of African Football have introduced policies promoting women’s football, implementation at the national level often falls short. Without inclusive leadership, meaningful change becomes difficult.

Governance, Accountability, and Implementation Challenges

Under the leadership of Abiy Ahmed, there has been a visible commitment to strengthening the sports sector in Ethiopia. This national vision is widely recognized and appreciated, with expectations that it would bring meaningful transformation across different sports, including women’s football. However, the reality on the ground tells a different story.

Despite the government’s growing support for sports development, women’s football continues to face serious structural challenges. Concerns have been raised that some officials and administrators within the system are not fully aligned with the broader national vision. Instead of prioritizing the growth of the sport, attention is sometimes diverted toward personal interests, limiting progress. As a result, many women footballers continue to experience difficult conditions, including unpaid or delayed salaries and lack of institutional support.

While it may be difficult to directly conclude the full extent of governance issues, there is a strong and growing call for greater accountability, transparency, and effective implementation of national sports policies.

Many stakeholders believe that closer review and action from higher government authorities including the Prime Minister’s Office could play a critical role in addressing these challenges and ensuring that the intended reforms reach the players and the sport itself.

Limited International Exposure

Regular participation in international competitions is essential for player development. However, Ethiopia’s women’s national team has had limited exposure on global and continental stages.

Fewer friendly matches, inadequate preparation, and inconsistent participation in CAF competitions have all contributed to stagnation. This lack of exposure not only affects performance but also reduces opportunities for players to secure international careers.

Voices Calling for Change

Across Ethiopia, players, coaches, and advocates are increasingly speaking out.

They call for:

• Equal funding and fair wages
• Structured youth development programs
• Increased media coverage
• Stronger governance and transparency
• Greater collaboration with international bodies

These voices represent a growing movement demanding recognition, respect, and reform.

The Way Forward: A New Vision for Women’s Football

For Ethiopia to unlock its full potential in women’s football, a strategic and inclusive approach is essential.

Key Recommendations:

• Increase Investment: Allocate dedicated budgets for women’s programs
• Develop Youth Academies: Build grassroots systems nationwide
• Enhance Media Strategy: Support and empower local media initiatives
• Promote Women Leadership: Include more women in decision-making roles
• Strengthen Partnerships: Collaborate with FIFA and CAF

Conclusion: A Future Worth Fighting For

Women’s football in Ethiopia stands at a crossroads. The talent is there. Passion is undeniable. What remains is the commitment to invest, support, and believe in the women who represent the future of the game. With the right leadership, accountability, and vision, Ethiopia has the potential not only to compete but to lead in African women’s football.