Exclusive: Tabitha Chawinga Talks Historic CAF Awards Feat, Malawi Challenge, Lyon Ambitions, and Barbra Banda Rivalry

The 2024 CAF Awards has etched a historic milestone, with the Chawinga sisters—Tabitha and Temwa—becoming the first siblings ever nominated for Africa’s most prestigious individual football accolade.

For Tabitha, this recognition is a testament to the resilience and ambition that has defined her career, as well as a celebration of sisterhood in African football.

This feature delves into the sisters' historic nomination, their shared journey from humble beginnings in Malawi to international success, Tabitha’s move to Olympique Lyonnais, her efforts to elevate women’s football in Malawi, and their pioneering roles in COSAFA and beyond. It also explores the special bond between the sisters, an inspiring symbol of hope for aspiring athletes across Africa.

Sisters Making History: A Family United by Football

For the first time in CAF Awards history, two sisters, Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga, have been jointly nominated for Africa’s top football honor. The significance of this milestone goes far beyond personal achievement—it serves as a beacon of hope for young African athletes who dream of global recognition.

“This nomination is really special for both of us,” Tabitha shared with SportsBoom.com. “It’s a big achievement to be on the shortlist together. I’m happy and proud of my sister Temwa. She’s better than me and will be on the shortlist for years to come. Maybe soon, I will not be there anymore."

She added, “We’ve never been in the top five before, but now we are. Everything has its time. Step by step, we’ve worked hard over the years. This is not just for us; it’s for all Africans to see that they can achieve greatness.”

Bonding Beyond Borders: Sisterhood in Football

As Tabitha continues to shine in European football—winning the 2023 top scorer award in France and making the UEFA Women's Champions League XI—Temwa is making waves in the NWSL with record-breaking performances.

Despite being on different continents, their connection remains unbreakable, extending beyond just family to inspire the wider African football community.

“We share the same story and encourage each other,” Tabitha said. “We also encourage African people. Those who don’t believe should see that it is possible to achieve great things.”

Tabitha emphasized, “I want to see my sister succeed, and I hope she wins it. I’ve never won the Ballon d’Or, but I’ll still push my sister to win it. The win is for our family.”

Gratitude, Hard Work, and Faith: Tabitha’s Foundations of Success

Tabitha’s journey from her home in Malawi to becoming one of the top footballers in the world has been a testament to her relentless effort, faith, and the support of those around her.

Since leaving DD Sunshine in 2014, she has amassed a glittering career, winning top scorer awards in Sweden, China, and Europe, and representing clubs like Inter Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, and now Olympique Lyonnais.

“First of all, I thank God for keeping me strong and healthy,” Tabitha said. “I also thank all the teams I’ve played for and my teammates who have supported me. It’s been about hard work, and I’m truly grateful for the encouragement from my fans and the media.”

She added, “This achievement isn’t just for me; it’s for my family, for my household.”

Chasing Dreams at Lyon

After a successful loan stint at Paris Saint-Germain, Tabitha made a bold move to French giants Olympique Lyonnais in 2024, in search of more silverware and to further her pursuit of greatness. The move represents a new chapter in her career, with the Champions League now firmly in her sights.

“The move to Lyon was a great opportunity for me,” she said. “At the end of the season, I was supposed to return to China, but I was drawn to Lyon. It was difficult, but my dream has always been to win the Champions League.”

Tabitha continued, “If I can win the Champions League before retiring, I’ll be happy. My ultimate goal is to win the Ballon d’Or.”

Uplifting Malawi: A Vision for the Future

Despite the challenges posed by limited international opportunities for players from Malawi, Tabitha remains deeply committed to her roots. She recently launched the TC 11 Academy, which will soon evolve into TC 11 Football Club, aimed at nurturing young talent in Malawi.

“I’ve been helping women’s football in Malawi by supporting DD Sunshine, but now I’ve started my own project—an academy that will soon become a football club,” she shared. “I want to encourage other girls and promote women’s football in Malawi.”

Tabitha expressed her vision for the future, saying, “In three to five years, we’ll have girls from Malawi playing in Europe. It’s not just about us; it’s about the FA and the Malawian government being involved too.”

CAF Awards Limitation: A Dent on the African Dream

While being nominated for the CAF Awards is a monumental achievement for Tabitha, she acknowledges the limitations faced by players from Malawi, which could impact her chances of winning the award.

The lack of consistent international competition for the Malawi national team presents a challenge, but it hasn’t diminished her pride in her achievements.

“It’s the biggest award in Africa, just like the Ballon d’Or,” she said. “If I don’t win, I’ll push my sister to win it. This is a victory for both of us and Malawi. If I win, I’ll be even happier because I won it because of the club I play for. For my sister, if she wins, it’s for where she plays.”

The COSAFA Legacy: Celebrating Regional Success

Tabitha and Temwa are part of a larger wave of talent emerging from the COSAFA region. Tabitha has represented her region in the COSAFA Women’s Championship on multiple occasions, and while she missed Malawi’s triumphant 2023 edition, she is proud of the region’s growing influence in women’s football.

“We have exceptional players coming out of our region, like Barbra Banda, Thembi Kgatlana, Jermaine Seoposenwe, and Rachael Kundananji,” she said. “I’m proud of what COSAFA teams are doing and the impact they’re having in major competitions like the Africa Cup of Nations.”

Chawinga Sisters and Barbra Banda: A COSAFA Rivalry at CAF Awards

The 2024 CAF Awards have also sparked a unique rivalry between the Chawinga sisters and Zambia’s Barbra Banda, with all three vying for the prestigious honor. Despite the competitive nature of the award, Tabitha has nothing but admiration for Barbra, a fellow trailblazer in African women’s football.

“Banda is my sister and a great player,” Tabitha said. “We’ve played together in China, and now she’s with my sister in America. For Barbra, it’s not just about the national team; it’s about her impact on the World Cup, Olympics, and leagues in China and the USA.”

Tabitha concluded, “If we win, it’s not just for the national team. But for Barbra, it’s a victory for both her national team and her club.”

This fierce but respectful rivalry among the three players highlights the growing prominence of African women in global football, inspiring future generations across the continent.