The Harambee Starlets have successfully ended a nine-year hiatus from continental football, securing their place in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
Kenya sealed qualification last night with a dominant 4-1 aggregate victory over The Gambia in the final qualifying round. The decisive blow came in the return leg, played at the Stade Lat Dior in Thiès, Senegal, where the Starlets secured a narrow but effective 1-0 win.
Mwanalima Adam seals the deal
Having established a solid 3-1 lead in the first leg at Nyayo Stadium—courtesy of goals from Mwanalima Adam, Fasila Adhiambo, and youngster Shaylene Opisa—Kenya needed to simply get the job done away from home.
It was the experienced Mwanalima Adam who delivered the crucial goal in the 56th minute of the return leg.
The strike completed a seamless qualification journey for Head Coach Beldine Odemba’s side, whose campaign began with a tough 1-0 aggregate victory over Tunisia in the previous round, secured by Tereza Engesha’s early goal in Sousse.
Focus and heart earn the milestone
Speaking after the match, an elated Coach Odemba hailed her players’ dedication and mental fortitude throughout the long campaign.
“We’ve waited for this moment for a long time. The girls have shown great character and heart in every game. It hasn’t been easy, but we stayed focused and believed in our goal, to bring Kenya back to the WAFCON stage,” Odemba said.
She stressed that the achievement was built on continuous preparation and teamwork. “Every training session, every friendly, every camp has built us up to this. The players deserve all the credit for their discipline and effort,” she added.
A milestone for women’s football
The Starlets’ return to the continental stage for the first time since 2016 is more than just a win; it is a significant milestone for Kenyan women’s football. It highlights the growth and sustained effort by players, coaches, and the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to ensure consistent progress.
As the Starlets now look ahead to facing Africa’s best in Morocco, one thing is clear: Kenya is back on the continental map, stronger and more determined than ever.
