Breaking Barriers: Lilian Prima Becomes One of South Sudan’s First Female CAF B Licence Coaches

By: Emmanuel Patrick Laku | Sports Hunter South Sudan

Juba, South Sudan – 20th March 2026 – In a historic milestone for South Sudanese football, Lilian Prima, former fitness coach of Yei Joint Stars FC, has successfully completed the CAF B Coaching Licence, one of Africa’s most prestigious and internationally recognized coaching certifications.

 Notably, Lilian is one of only three female coaches to attend the course, making her achievement a breakthrough for women in football in a country where opportunities for female coaches remain limited.

The four-month program, which began on 10th November 2025, combined rigorous theoretical and practical training. Coaches were tested on tactics, formations, session planning, and match management. 

The practical exams, held at the Juba National Stadium, concluded on Thursday, 19th March 2026, marking the culmination of an intensive journey that pushed participants to their limits.

Before joining the CAF B course, Lilian had a brief spell coaching Simba FC in the Juba Football Association 1st Division League last season, in addition to her role as a fitness coach for Yei Joint Stars FC.

 These experiences provided her with a strong foundation in both player development and team management.

Reflecting on her selection and journey, Lilian Prima shared:

"This CAF B Coaching Licence course has not been easy, and earning a spot was even more challenging. Over 45 coaches applied, but only 25 were selected. I feel extremely fortunate and grateful to the federation for choosing me to be part of this opportunity."

Her motivation was clear: she aimed to move from fitness coach to head coach, breaking professional barriers that had previously limited her career.

"Before, I was a fitness coach for Yei Joint Stars, but I was told that without a CAF B Coaching Licence, I couldn’t become a head coach. That’s why I decided to join this course. I want to grow from being a fitness coach to a head coach, as this certificate is professionally recognized and opens the door to new opportunities."

The course itself provided Lilian with tools to transform football in South Sudan:

"The course covered the core values of being a coach, including how to design different session plans, implement various formations, and apply different styles of play. It has given us a strong foundation to approach coaching in a professional and structured way."

Lilian’s ambitions go far beyond personal achievement. She is determined to develop the next generation of football talent in South Sudan:

"After acquiring the CAF B Coaching Licence, I will be proud of myself, but my journey doesn’t end there. I will have the responsibility to serve my country by going out and training young boys and girls, applying what I have learned once I receive the certificate."

Her confidence in her abilities is undeniable:

"Now, with the CAF B Licence and the knowledge we’ve gained over these four months, I feel confident that I am ready to take on coaching roles at any level—even senior men’s or women’s teams, or clubs in the Premier League. Whatever men can do, we can do too, and if given the opportunity with the senior men’s national team, I am confident I can perform and contribute effectively."

The CAF B Licence now qualifies Lilian Prima to coach national teams and clubs across Africa, positioning her as a trailblazer for women in coaching and a role model for aspiring female football leaders across the continent. Her journey demonstrates that passion, perseverance, and professional training can break barriers, inspiring a generation of young coaches and players in South Sudan and beyond.