The South African Football Association (SAFA) has confirmed a collaborative alliance with Shield, a renowned deodorant brand under Unilever South Africa.

This five-year partnership with Shield aligns with SAFA’s objective of attracting additional sponsors to support not just the Association itself, but also the South African Senior Women’s National team, Banyana Banyana. Shield recently earned recognition as an official sponsor for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, which commenced in Australia and New Zealand on Thursday, 20th July.

SAFA CEO Lydia Monyepao asserts that the incorporation of more corporate sponsors, particularly in women’s football, would bolster our efforts to bridge the gender pay disparity. It would also enhance Banyana Banyana’s opportunities to contest against top-tier opposition, ensuring they stay competitive on the global stage.

Monyepao also expressed that this collaboration with Unilever South Africa is timely as SAFA strives to host the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2027. Should their aspirations materialise, the federation is optimistic that this partnership will flourish further, making women’s football in South Africa the ultimate beneficiary.

As part of their commitment to further professionalise women’s football across the continent, SAFA will continue to lobby for additional sponsorship.

SAFA Shield sponsorship