In the midst of a political transition following the fall of former President Omar al-Bashir, Sudan on Monday (September 30th) authorized the holding of the first league match of its women's football league at the Khartoum stadium. So far the country was far from being a pioneer of the continent in terms of gender equality in football, especially because of the application of sharia (Islamic law) since 1983.
The match between Tahadi and Difaa clubs was held at the stadium of the capital. "This is a historic meeting, not just for women's sport but for all of Sudan," said Sports Minister Wala Essam, who was present alongside Sudanese and foreign diplomats.
"Now I can play in my homeland"
After the match, the players let their joy explode, claiming that this moment would have been unimaginable a year ago. "Before the revolution in Sudan, my plan was to go abroad to play, but now I can play in my homeland," said Asma Abubakr, dressed in the Tahadi team's green jersey.
Other measures to liberalize Sudanese society are expected since the departure of Omar al-Bashir, including freedom of expression, gender equality and sports and the arts.
With AFP