The Harambee Starlets have launched their campaign for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with renewed energy and ambition, spotlighting their upcoming final-round qualifier against Gambia. The two-legged clash begins on Friday, October 24 at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi, with the return leg set for Tuesday, October 28 at Stade Lat Dior in Thiès, Senegal a neutral venue due to Gambia’s lack of suitable home facilities.
This decisive fixture follows Kenya’s earlier triumph over Tunisia in the preliminary rounds and marks the final step toward a WAFCON return, having last qualified in 2016.
Squad Depth and New Faces
Head coach Beldine Odemba has named a 38-player provisional squad, blending seasoned internationals with rising stars from both local and overseas clubs. The team entered camp on October 5 and has since intensified training in Nairobi, focusing on tactical drills and team cohesion.
Notable first-time call-ups include:
- Mercy Akoth (Vihiga Queens) – Goalkeeper
- Nicoline Hawi Muteshi (Iron Ladies FC) – Forward and top scorer in the 2024/25 FKF Women Division One
International reinforcements feature:
- Mwanalima Adam (HB Koge, Denmark)
- Tereza Engesha (Wuhan Giangda, China)
- Enez Mango (Farul Constanta, Turkey)
Full Provisional Squad Highlights
- Goalkeepers: Annedy Kundu, Vivian Shiyonzo, Lilian Awuor, Mercy Akoth
- Defenders: Lorine Ilavonga, Ruth Ingosi, Dorcas Neema, Tabitha Amoit, Dorcas Shikobe, Norah Ann, Enez Mango, Leah Andiema, Lavyne Ochola, Janet Mumo, Vivian Nasaka, Kikky Masika
- Midfielders: Lydia Akoth, Medina Abubakar, Corazone Aquino, Diana Wacera, Sheryl Angach, Martha Amnyolet, Elizabeth Muteshi, Beverlyn Adika, Keziah Ngaira, Lavender Ann, Fasila Adhiambo
- Forwards: Mwanalima Adam, Charity Midewa, Diana Cherono, Tereza Engesha, Faith Mboya, Catherine Khaemba, Tumaini Waliaula, Violet Nanjala, Elizabeth Wambui, Shirleen Opisa, Nicoline Hawi Muteshi
Momentum and Fan Support
The Starlets have built momentum through earlier friendlies against Ivory Coast and Morocco, aimed at sharpening their competitive edge. Training visuals show a spirited squad, with players expressing confidence in their chances.
Fan reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, though some concerns were raised about the 6:00 PM weekday kick-off, which may affect attendance due to work schedules, a recurring challenge in promoting women’s football.
What’s at Stake
A win over Gambia would secure Kenya’s spot at the 2026 WAFCON and mark a significant milestone in the growth of women’s football in the country. With rising investment and fan engagement, the Starlets’ journey is more than a qualifier, it’s a statement of intent.
Stay tuned to SportsBiz.co.ke for match coverage, squad updates, and exclusive insights into Kenya’s #RoadToWAFCON.
