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East Africa Frontline News

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May 06.2025

2 Minutes Read

Mauritius Embraces Women’s Football: A Path to Economic Empowerment

Women's football development in Mauritius depicted in action-packed game.

Football: A Growing Community Passion in Mauritius

The beautiful island nation of Mauritius is famed for its stunning beaches and warm climate, yet it is steadily shifting its narrative towards football, particularly women's soccer. With a population akin to a smaller city, Mauritius is reenergizing its sports scene, helping women athletes carve a niche in the global football landscape.

Building a Future for Women’s Football

Despite being relatively low in the FIFA Women’s World Rankings, the Mauritius Football Association (MFA) is diligently working to improve the status of women's football. Anielle Collet, the MFA’s women’s football development officer and Under-17 national team coach, is pushing for growth as she recognizes the remarkable socio-cultural significance of football on the island. Collet expresses confidence in the emerging generation of talented athletes, with many players securing opportunities to compete internationally in leagues across France, the USA, and Canada.

Impact of the MFA's Strategic Plan

The MFA's strategic plan aims at nurturing talent from the grassroots level to the senior national squad, thereby laying down a sustainable infrastructure for the sport. Collet highlights that this progress extends beyond players to include staff development and improved visibility in the league. The creation of more training academies is fostering an environment where female coaches and players can thrive. As visibility increases, so does interest from the community, enhancing both local support and commercial potential.

Why Football Is More Than Just A Sport

Football embodies the spirit of community in Mauritius; it unites people beyond cultural divides. Collet states, "It’s part of our culture. Everyone is eager every weekend to watch the games." This communal aspect encourages local merchants and businesses, vital in a growing e-commerce and trade landscape. With initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) enhancing cross-border trade, the growing enthusiasm for football aligns with expanding commercial opportunities, paving the way for further growth within the digital economy.

Leveraging football’s charm could be a powerful vehicle to promote local commerce and e-commerce growth, creating a harmonious balance between sports and trade while empowering women in the process.

As Mauritius embarks on its footballing journey, it represents not only a sporting ambition but a potential rise in local economic engagement, presenting possibilities for exporters and importers alike to support this evolution.

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Mauritius Embraces Women’s Football: A Path to Economic Empowerment

Football: A Growing Community Passion in Mauritius

Building a Future for Women’s Football

Impact of the MFA's Strategic Plan

Why Football Is More Than Just A Sport

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