Despite recent reforms, gender inequality in Algeria remains a challenge. According to UN Women, only around 15% of Algerian parliamentary seats are held by women, and female labor force participation stands at just 17%, among the lowest in North Africa. For many girls, opportunities in sport remain extremely limited, especially in remote regions.

Adrar Province, the second largest in Algeria, is a vast and arid region in the country’s deep south, known for its extreme climate, remote desert landscapes, and deeply rooted traditions. As part of the Sport for Development programme, our partner KNVB actively seeks out bold local leaders who use sport to drive social inclusion. In Algeria, where football is common for boys and men but still considered unusual or inappropriate for girls, one such coach emerged.

Kandli Mohammed Yazid, a passionate educator, took a bold step. With just 8 girls, students from his middle school, he began holding regular training sessions. What started as a small group has become a committed team of 30 girls who now gather weekly to play, train and build confidence. Forming the region’s first-ever female football club and opening up new possibilities for girls in one of Algeria’s most remote and conservative areas.

"It’s not just about football. It’s about giving these girls visibility, voice, and a chance to dream differently." - Yazid quotes.

Parents were initially hesitant, but Yazid engaged them directly, earning their trust and creating a safe and supportive environment. Today, many parents actively support their daughters’ participation. Many of the girls had never imagined themselves on a football pitch, but are now discovering the joy of teamwork, the discipline of sport, and the strength of being seen.

In June a big dream came true: the team participated in a national tournament, traveling over 2,500 km to join 15 other girls’ teams from across Algeria. Their greatest win that day wasn’t on the scoreboard, it was simply being there, in a space where girls are rarely seen.

The ambition doesn’t stop there. Yazid is working to support his players to become WorldCoaches themselves and to integrate into the national Algerian league. This local story is part of a larger national movement, top-level instructors are emerging across the country. Some, like Yazid are now part of the African Confederation licensing programs.

Investing in sport is a proven and highly accessible strategy to advance gender equality, particularly in contexts where traditional pathways to empowerment remain limited. Evidence consistently shows that participation in sport enhances equality. To sustain and scale this impact, continued support, through policy, funding, and community engagement, is not optional but essential.