South African Sports Minister Gayton Mckenzie and his deputy Peace Mabe are at odds when it comes to hosting this year's Women's Africa Cup of Nations

South African Sports Minister Gayoton Mckenzie has come out to clarify the country’s position on hosting the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations this year.

Mckenzie deputy Peace Mabe announced on Sunday while the Hollywoodbets Super League Awards that South Africa has been awarded the rights to host the Wafcon this year.

This tournament is known to be going to Morocco and the announcement by Mabe took many by surprise.

Mckenzie and Mabe are now singing from different hymn books as the Minister went onto release what is seen as the status of where the negotiations are for the tournament hosts.

“As the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, I wish to provide clarity following remarks made by the Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture at the Hollywood bets Super League Awards regarding the 2026 TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON),” said McKenzie.

“South Africa has expressed its willingness to support the Confederation of African Football [CAF] if required. Should alternative hosting arrangements for the 2026 WAFCON become necessary. These engagements form part of ongoing discussions initiated by CAF. It considers various contingencies in line with the confederation’s responsible stewardship of the continental game.

“At this stage, no formal decision has been taken to relocate the tournament. Morocco remains the officially designated host of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. CAF has not yet triggered any alternative hosting process.

“Any potential hosting of the tournament by South Africa would be subject to established government and football governance processes. This will be in partnership with the South African Football Association and other stakeholders, including:

a) Formal confirmation from CAF that alternative hosting arrangements are required.

b) Approval through the relevant Cabinet processes.

c) Confirmation of host cities, stadium availability, accommodation and transport capacity.

d) The conclusion of the necessary government guarantees and operational agreements.

“The remarks made by the Deputy Minister reflect the government’s longstanding engagement on supporting African football. Also, South Africa’s confidence in its proven ability to host major international sporting events. They do not constitute a formal confirmation or assumption of hosting responsibilities.

The minister revealed that talks among all relevant stakeholders are still ongoing.

“The Department, with SAFA and stakeholders, will continue to engage with CAF in a structured and responsible manner. Any further announcements will be made only once all required processes have been concluded and formal decisions taken,” he said.

“The Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture will continue to pursue a long-term strategy of hosting major sporting events to boost sport, tourism, economic growth and the image of the country on the world stage.”