By S. Siapha Mulbah
The Acting Women’s Football Manager at the Liberia Football Association (LFA), Aletha Massaquoi, has underscored the urgent need for sustainable investment in women’s football in Liberia, particularly at the grassroots and youth levels.
Speaking as a guest on early this week on a local radio, OK FM show in Monrovia, Massaquoi highlighted the ongoing financial challenges that continue to hinder the growth of the women’s game in the country. She called on both the government and the general public to recognize their role in supporting and promoting the national women’s teams.
“This is Liberia’s team. Liberians need to take possession of the team and help sponsor it,” Massaquoi said. “The government and the Ministry of Youth and Sports often come in with support, but more often than not, it’s the Liberia Football Association that shoulders the responsibility.”
According to Massaquoi, while there has been some commitment from the Ministry of Youth and Sports to support the senior women’s national team, there remains a significant gap when it comes to the development of the U-17 and U-20 teams. These youth squads, she explained, are vital for nurturing the next generation of players but are often left without adequate funding and logistical support.
“What about our youth teams? Who supports them?” she asked. “These teams are usually left to the LFA alone. That’s not sustainable if we want to compete regionally or internationally in the long run.”
Massaquoi emphasized that grassroots football is the foundation of any successful footballing nation. She said investment in youth programs, coaching education, and infrastructure is essential to build a strong pipeline of talent and ensure the long-term success of the sport.
“Our vision for women’s football is a long-term one,” she explained. “We need support not just for the senior team, but for youth and grassroots programs as well. Capacity building is crucial we need more trained coaches, better facilities, and structured leagues for young girls.”
She further urged the private sector, international partners, and community-based organizations to play a more active role in the development of the sport. Massaquoi believes that a collaborative approach is necessary to elevate women’s football in Liberia and place it on the global stage.
“We need support for grassroots football and capacity building not just for today’s team, but for the future of women’s football in Liberia,” she said with a passionate appeal.
The Liberia Football Association has pledged to continue its advocacy efforts and remains committed to developing a vibrant, competitive, and inclusive environment for female footballers across the country.
