Zimbabwe to Host 2025 CAF U17 Girls Integrated Football Tournament

Zimbabwe will play host to one of Africa’s most promising youth football events, the CAF U17 Girls Integrated Football Tournament (GIFT) Cup, scheduled for 8–18 December 2025.

Preparations for the prestigious competition are already underway following a high level planning meeting held today at the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) Headquarters in Harare, attended by COSAFA Executive Director Sue Destombes and Deputy Director Francis Makonese.

The visit marked a crucial step in Zimbabwe’s readiness to deliver the tournament, which is designed to promote talent development and gender inclusion in African football.

ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi expressed confidence that the nation will stage a world class event that goes beyond sport, celebrating the power and potential of young African girls.

“We are honoured by CAF’s trust and COSAFA’s partnership. The GIFT Cup is more than a tournament, it is an investment in the dreams of young African girls,” said Magwizi.

The GIFT Cup, introduced by CAF in 2024, is an annual competition for U17 girls’ clubs and academies across the continent. It serves as a key part of CAF’s women’s football development agenda, providing a platform for young players to gain international exposure and experience.

This year’s edition will mark the first time the GIFT Cup is hosted in the COSAFA region, a milestone that underscores Southern Africa’s growing influence in women’s football.

COSAFA Executive Director Sue Destombes praised Zimbabwe’s commitment to women’s football and said the tournament would leave a lasting legacy.

“Hosting this event shows Zimbabwe’s growing leadership in developing women’s football. Beyond competition, the GIFT Cup will inspire young girls, coaches, and communities to believe in their dreams,” she said.

ZIFA officials are expected to unveil the host venues, match schedule, and participating academies in the coming weeks. The tournament will bring together some of Africa’s most talented young female players, offering scouts, coaches, and fans a glimpse into the future of the women’s game on the continent.

As Zimbabwe continues to rebuild and strengthen its football structures, hosting the CAF U17 GIFT Cup represents a major opportunity to showcase the country’s capacity to stage international tournaments and to further promote the empowerment of girls through sport.