South Sudan launches inaugural Women’s Premier League

By Isaac Denish

The South Sudan Football Federation has launched the country’s inaugural Women’s Premier League, with 12 teams set to compete for a top prize of $15,000.

The 2026-27 season will kick off Sept. 19, marking the first edition of South Sudan’s top-flight women’s football competition.

The league’s winner will receive $15,000, while the runner-up will take home $5,000.

The launch is being hailed as a major step in the development of women’s football in South Sudan, providing female players with regular competitive opportunities and a pathway to regional and international competitions.

SSFF President Francis Amin Michael urged families and communities to support girls and women participating in football.

He said greater support from families and communities would encourage more girls to take up the sport and contribute to the long-term development of women’s football in the country.

South Sudan women’s representative Suzan John said the league would give players valuable competitive experience while creating opportunities to represent the country in regional and international competitions.

The SSFF said the competition is part of its efforts to professionalize women’s football, strengthen grassroots talent identification and create sustainable opportunities for female players, coaches and officials.

The federation said the inaugural 12-team season is expected to provide a stronger foundation for the growth of women’s football across South Sudan and help develop a broader pool of talent for national teams.