By: Natasha Archary
The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) says the R55 000 bonus that Banyana Banyana players are set to receive is an insult to gender equality.
This after the women’s national team reached the finals of the Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
In contrast the men’s national team, Bafana Bafana were to receive a R250 000 bonus each, if they qualified for the upcoming FIFA Men’s World Cup in Qatar.
Now, the CGE feels the amount put forward for the women’s team is a ‘slap in the face’ for gender equality.
“It’s unfair for a group of hardworking female athletes who have performed excellently to fly the South African flag high at this tournament. In the past discussions were held with the South African Football Association (SAFA) regarding the unequal pay structures between the men and women’s teams.”
The CGE says it will be continuing engagements with different sport associations and federations on the matter.
SAFA had offered Bafana Bafana, the R250 000 individual bonus structure which included, player’s appearance fees, camp money, and food allowance.
However, the women’s team is not remunerated on the same scale.
The bonus offered to Banyana Banyana has been publicly ridiculed by many celebrities who have called Minister for Sport, Arts and Culture, Nathi Mthethwa a failure.
Calling for Mthethwa’s resignation, Bonang Matheba criticised him for failing to support the successful women’s team.
“Please. These girls deserve MONEY! Open. Your. Wallet. Akere you want an orchestra?!! So damn useless!! Resign.”
Bonang called out Minister for Sport, Arts and Culture, Nathi Mthethwa for failing Banyana Banyana
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