Kenya’s national women’s football team, the Harambee Starlets, have captured the nation’s attention following an emphatic 3–1 home victory over The Gambia in the first leg of the 2026 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers.
The match, played at Nairobi’s iconic Nyayo Stadium, showcased the Starlets’ dominance as they set the pace, controlled territory, and converted chances to secure an important win. The Gambia managed to pull back a goal, keeping the contest tense, but Kenya’s resilience ensured a comfortable margin heading into the return leg.
Team captain Dorcas Shikobe expressed gratitude for the government’s recognition, highlighting how such support motivates the squad to aim even higher. She encouraged young girls across Kenya to pursue their football dreams, assuring fans that the Starlets are determined to qualify for WAFCON and set new benchmarks for women’s sports in the country.
This impressive performance has placed Kenya in a strong position to qualify for the continent’s premier women’s football tournament, and it has also attracted high-level recognition from the country’s leadership. President William Ruto, acknowledging the significance of the win, hosted the Starlets at State House to celebrate their achievement. He praised the team’s discipline, talent, and determination, describing their victory as a symbol of the rising strength of women’s sport in Kenya.
Backing his words with action, President Ruto awarded the team and their coaching staff a cash prize of KSh 10 million. This reward fulfilled a motivational pledge made before the match, which included KSh 5 million for a home win, KSh 2.5 million for a draw, and additional incentives for away results and eventual qualification. This tangible support from the highest office sends a powerful message about the value of women athletes and the government’s commitment to their success.
The event was also attended by Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba and Football Kenya Federation officials, who celebrated the Starlets’ accomplishment and reiterated their commitment to investing in women’s football infrastructure, training, and grassroots development. These efforts are vital for sustaining momentum and building a pipeline of future talent.
Despite the celebrations, the Starlets face an important challenge ahead as they prepare for the away leg. Maintaining their focus, managing the pressures of travel and potentially hostile environments, and delivering consistent performances will be key to securing qualification.
The President’s reward system has set a new standard for recognition and support, and with ongoing investment in infrastructure and development, Kenya’s women’s football has a real chance to achieve sustained success.
For the Harambee Starlets, this victory is more than a step toward WAFCON qualification—it is a statement of their ambition, capability, and the nation’s evolving attitude toward women’s sport.
With the pathway now open and meaningful rewards in place, the future shines bright for Kenya’s female footballers and every young girl aspiring to represent her country on the pitch
