Nsawam Prison: Female inmates chase coaching dreams

In a bold and unprecedented initiative redefining prison reform in Ghana, the Nsawam Female Prison has become the stage for a transformative project that fuses football with rehabilitation.

For the first time, 25 female inmates and five prison officers are being trained to earn CAF Licence D Coaching certificates—proof that even behind bars, the power of sport can unlock new horizons and inspire second chances.

Organised by CAF Women’s Football in collaboration with the Ghana Football Association (GFA) Foundation, the groundbreaking initiative commenced last Monday and will run for a week until February 3.

Over the eight days, the participants will undergo intensive training and have the opportunity to earn CAF-accredited Licence D Coaching certificates upon successfully passing their final exam.

Experienced instructors

The programme’s distinguished instructors — Mercy Tagoe-Quarcoo, Joyce Boatey-Agyei and Bernice Adutwumwaa, all experienced CAF Women’s Football trainers — are guiding the participants through the rigorous sessions. It represents a fusion of rehabilitation and empowerment, ensuring the participants receive top-tier coaching education.

At the heart of CAF’s Football for Reform initiative is a vision to leverage the unifying power of football to inspire hope and provide tangible opportunities for those behind bars.

By equipping female inmates with internationally recognised coaching qualifications, the programme not only boosts their employability but also paves the way for a smoother reintegration into society post-incarceration.

This historic collaboration between CAF, the GFA Foundation and the Ghana Prisons Service underscores the sport’s potential to inspire, rehabilitate and empower, marking a significant stride in the use of football as a tool for positive societal impact.