For many women in Kibra, football is no longer just a game: it is a second chance.
Across dusty pitches and cheering sidelines, local tournaments are quietly restoring dreams that once seemed lost.
For young mothers who stepped away from competitive sport due to pregnancy and financial hardship, these competitions are offering something rare: hope.
Among them is 24-year-old goalkeeper Nancy Njeri, a former player in the Women’s National Super League (WNSL), who is determined to reclaim her football journey despite the challenges of motherhood.
“Football is still my dream,” she says. “Being a mother has changed many things, but I still want to play professional football.”
Like many women in her position, balancing childcare and sport is not easy, especially for those from low-income households. Yet, the tournaments have created a pathway back.
“Taking part in this competition keeps the dream alive for many young women who have taken a break from football.” she notes referring to the Football Mums Tournament organised by the Non-Government Organisation Path to Russia
Njeri now plays for Young Mothers, a team formed by women who left football after becoming pregnant but refused to let their passion fade, beyond the pitch, she juggles multiple roles: working as a trained plumber and running catering services to support her child, with help from her mother.
Despite the odds, her ambitions remain intact. Having also featured in the FKF Women Premier League (WPL), she continues to dream of playing on the international stage.
On behalf of other participants, Njeri expressed gratitude for the tournaments, describing them as more than just matches.
“They give us a chance to connect, showcase our talents, and build unity among women and girls,” she said.
The Football Mums Tournament held at Kibra DC Ground brought together over 150 players from five teams: Kibra Starlets, Young Mums, Lucky Stars, Kibra Girls Soccer Academy, and Beauty in Black.
But beyond the competition, the event carried a deeper purpose: promoting peace, social inclusion, and women’s empowerment within the community.
Matches were played in a spirited yet friendly atmosphere, with players demonstrating not only skill and teamwork, but also resilience and determination. Lucky Stars emerged as champions after a strong performance throughout the tournament.
This week’s matches marked the fourth and final edition of the tournament series in Kibra, an initiative that has, over the years, transformed lives by fostering social cohesion, youth empowerment and gender inclusion through sport.
For many participants, the impact goes far beyond the final whistle and for women like Nancy Njeri, the real victory is not the trophy; it is the chance to dream again.
These tournaments have become a lifeline, reviving ambitions, rebuilding confidence, and proving that motherhood does not mark the end of a dream but the beginning of a new chapter.
Speaking after the tournament, Path to Russia’s coordinator Erick Ochieng commended players, partners and volunteers for their role in making the tournament a success.
By Purity Mugo
