The Harambee Starlets have sealed their long-awaited return to the continental stage after qualifying for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a commanding 4–1 aggregate victory over Gambia.
The Starlets clinched a decisive 1–0 win in the second leg of the final qualifying round on Tuesday, October 28, at the Stade Lat Dior in Thiès, Senegal. The solitary goal came in the 50th minute through forward Mwanalima Adam Jeroko, who once again proved her class on the international front.
Kenya had gone into the return leg with a comfortable 3–1 lead from the first leg played at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi on Friday, October 24. In that encounter, goals from Adam, Fasila Adhiambo, and Shalyne Opisa gave the hosts a firm grip on qualification.
The aggregate victory marks a historic comeback for the Harambee Starlets, who are set to appear at the WAFCON for the first time in nine years. The 2026 edition of the tournament will be held in Morocco from March 17 to April 3, 2026.
Presidential Praise and Promises
President William Ruto was among the first to congratulate the team, lauding their resilience and excellence.
“Warm congratulations to our brilliant Harambee Starlets for their 1–0 victory over Gambia, sealing a 4–1 aggregate triumph that books Kenya’s place at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco,” the President said in a statement.
“This decisive win is a glowing testament to the discipline, talent, and indomitable spirit of our women footballers, and to the remarkable leadership of the technical bench. You have made Kenya immensely proud and reaffirmed Kenya’s rise in women’s sports. As you march toward WAFCON, know that the entire nation celebrates you and is behind you. Kama kawaida, nitacheza kama mimi,” he added.
President Ruto, who has shown a keen interest in promoting women’s sports, had earlier awarded the team Ksh5 million after their first-leg win in Nairobi. He also pledged Ksh1 million for each player if they triumphed in the return leg—a promise that now stands due following the team’s qualification.
A Symbol of Resilience
The Harambee Starlets’ qualification is being hailed as a powerful symbol of resurgence in Kenyan women’s football. After years of administrative wrangles and missed opportunities, the team’s performance underlines both tactical improvement and renewed morale within the squad.
Sports analysts have described the victory as a major confidence boost ahead of the continental showpiece. With a blend of experienced players like Adam and promising talents like Opisa, Kenya’s women’s national team now looks poised to compete against Africa’s best.
As the countdown to Morocco 2026 begins, the Harambee Starlets carry not only the nation’s hopes but also a growing belief that Kenyan women’s football is ready to shine again on the biggest stage.
Fact Box:
Tournament: 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON)
Host Nation: Morocco
Dates: March 17 – April 3, 2026
Kenya’s Qualification: 4–1 aggregate win over Gambia
Goalscorers (1st Leg): Mwanalima Adam, Fasila Adhiambo, Shalyne Opisa
Goalscorer (2nd Leg): Mwanalima Adam
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