The Liberia Football Association (LFA) in partnership with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Monday officially launched the CAF License D coaching course for female inmates at the Monrovia Central Prison famously known as South Beach compound.
The reform initiative is designed to equip female inmates with CAF-accredited coaching certifications, enhancing their employment prospects and aiding their smooth reintegration into society following their release from prison.
It also aims to leverage football as a means of rehabilitation and fostering positive transformation.
Twenty-three (23) inmates and two correction officers, including an administrator, are participating in the week-long course being facilitated by CAF Instructors, Selam Kedebe, an Elite Instructor and Robert Lartey.
The CAF D License serves as an entry-level coaching qualification, with a focus on grassroots football development.
It introduces participants to coaching principles, team management, and foundational skills for youth player development, laying the groundwork for future advancement in football coaching.
LFA Third Vice President, Jodie M. Reid-Seton, who officially launched the groundbreaking initiative, described it as a historic milestone and reaffirmed both CAF and the LFA’s dedication to using football as a tool for empowerment and social transformation, especially for women.
“Today marks a historic moment as we officially launch the CAF D License Course for our female inmates. This CAF-accredited program is more than just about football—it’s about restoring hope, building confidence, and preparing you [ the inmates] not only for today but for life beyond the prison,” she said.
The Assistant Minister for Correction and Rehabilitation at the Ministry of Justice, Atty. Gabriel F. Ndupellar, expressed gratitude to the LFA and CAF for the initiative, which he described as a “living hope” for female inmates.
He also encouraged the participants to make the most of the opportunity.
The event was graced by several dignitaries and stakeholders, including LFA First Vice President, Mr. Sekou Konneh, Deputy Youth and Sports Minister, G. Andy Quamie, representatives from the Ministry of Justice, EU-Liberia, and prison authorities.
