Barbra Banda Wins CAF Women's Player of the Year

Barbra Banda has been crowned the 2024 CAF Women's Player of the Year, becoming the first Zambian to receive this honor. Her remarkable year includes a record-breaking performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics and a successful debut season with Orlando Pride in the NWSL, where she scored 17 goals and was named the league's Most Valuable Player. Banda's achievements also include her recognition as the BBC Women's Footballer of the Year and a spot in the FIFPRO Women's World 11, underscoring her global impact in football. Criticism surrounding her earlier accolades has been met with strong support from notable figures in women's football. Meanwhile, Nigeria's Ademola Lookman was awarded African Footballer of the Year, highlighting his significant contributions to Atalanta and the Nigerian national team. The awards ceremony celebrated both players' extraordinary journeys and contributions to African football.