Football superfan Mama Joy Chauke led a lively send-off for Banyana Banyana at OR Tambo International Airport on Saturday as the defending Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) champions departed for Morocco.

Clad in her signature South African colours, face paint and vibrant beaded regalia, Mama Joy brought the energy as she led supporters in song, dance and chants while Banyana Banyana prepared to depart for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

Backing the reigning African champions to defend their crown, the country’s most recognisable superfan called on South Africans to rally behind the national team.

“Our focus is now 100% on Banyana Banyana,” she said.

“They’ve done it before, and they can do it again. To qualify for the FIFA Women’s World Cup they’ll have to fight even harder, but we believe in them. They’ll show Africa once again why South Africa belongs among the continent’s best.”

Beyond the colourful send-off, the occasion also marked the launch of Goals 4 Pads—a meaningful partnership between SAFA and Stayfree. For every goal Banyana Banyana scores during the tournament, 1,000 packs of sanitary pads will be donated to schools, football academies and community organisations across South Africa.

SAFA CEO Lydia Monyepao described the initiative as more than a sponsorship, calling it an investment in the future of girls’ football.

“For us, this is about removing barriers. Many young girls cannot afford sanitary pads. Some stay away from football because of it, while others are unable to perform at their best. Through this partnership, we’re creating opportunities for more girls to stay in the game and chase their dreams,” she said.

Stayfree Brand Manager Zamashandu Mbatha echoed the sentiment, saying the brand’s partnership with Banyana Banyana is rooted in purpose.

“Women’s football remains underfunded, and we wanted to invest where it truly matters. Banyana Banyana represent resilience, excellence and hope for young girls across South Africa, making them the perfect partners for this campaign,” she said.

Midfielder Noxolo Cesane acknowledged the challenge that lies ahead but believes the squad is ready to rise to the occasion.

“It’s going to be a tough tournament because every team is going there to compete. We’ve prepared well, and the most important thing now is staying mentally strong,” she said.

As Banyana Banyana head to Morocco with hopes of defending their continental title and securing qualification for the next FIFA Women’s World Cup, they’ll also carry a mission that extends far beyond football—using every goal scored to help more girls stay in school, stay in sport and continue believing that their dreams are within reach.