Morocco has made history as it hosts the 16th edition of the All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT), Africa’s premier women’s golf competition. The tournament, held for the first time in Morocco, took place from November 28 to 30, 2024, at the stunning Tazegzout Golf Course in Agadir under the presidency of HRH Prince Moulay Rachid.
A Landmark Event for Women’s Golf in Africa
The AACT, established in 1992, has grown into a key platform for nurturing and showcasing women’s golf talent across the continent. It features teams of three players from participating nations, following a 54-hole stroke play format where the best two scores in each round contribute to the team’s total. This year’s edition gathers 20 nations, including defending champions South Africa, Angola, Egypt, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, and Kenya, as well as debutantes and returning teams like Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire.
The event underscores the rising popularity of women’s golf in Africa, with each edition expanding its reach and competitiveness.
Team Morocco: Leading the Charge
Morocco’s national team was spearheaded by 15-year-old Sofia Cherif Essakali, a rising star who has already proved her mettle on the international stage, including making the cut twice at the Lalla Meryem Cup. She was joined by Nadia Sanz Ouezzani and Rim Imni, products of the Royal Moroccan Golf Federation’s “Road to the Tour” program, which aims to develop young golfing talent.
Having achieved second-place, Morocco entered the tournament with high hopes, and delivered spectacularly.
Celebrating Morocco’s Victory
The 2024 AACT was a momentous occasion for Morocco, as the host nation not only impressed on the course but emerged victorious in both the team and individual championships:
- Individual Winner: Sofia Cherif Essakali delivered a masterful performance to claim the individual title. Her stellar second-round score of 66 secured a commanding lead, which she maintained to finish 6 strokes ahead of her nearest competitor. At just 15 years old, Sofia’s triumph against Africa’s best female amateur golfers highlights her immense talent and potential.
- Team Champions: Morocco triumphed in the team competition, showcasing the depth of their talent and excellent teamwork. With consistent performances from all three players—Sofia Cherif Essakali, Nadia Sanz Ouezzani, and Rim Imni—the Moroccan team outplayed strong contenders, including the powerhouse South African squad. This historic win marks a new chapter for Moroccan women’s golf on the continental stage.
A Commitment to Excellence
Hosting the AACT is a testament to Morocco’s dedication to fostering sports, particularly women’s golf, and its ability to organize world-class events. The tournament not only promotes golf but also highlights the breathtaking landscapes of Agadir, a growing destination for sports tourism.
Looking ahead, the AACT continues to serve as a vital platform for elevating women’s golf across Africa. Its impact extends beyond competition, inspiring the next generation of female golfers and fostering a sense of community and pride across the continent.
Congratulations to the Moroccan team for their historic victory and to all participants for making the 16th edition of the All Africa Challenge Trophy truly memorable. Here’s to a bright future for African women’s golf!
