The Kenya national women’s football team, Harambee Starlets, have booked their place in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a 1-0 win over Gambia.
Mwanalima ‘Dogo’ Adam netted the lone goal in the 56th minute in the return leg of the final qualification round of the 2026 WAFCON played at the Stade Lat Dior in Thiès, Senegal.
The result sealed a 4-1 aggregate victory sending Kenya back to the continental stage for the first time in nine years.
This qualification is more than just a win; it’s a milestone for Kenyan women’s football. The Starlets’ return to WAFCON highlights the growth of the women’s game and the effort put in by players, coaches, and the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to ensure consistent progress.
Their journey began against Tunisia in the first round. After a goalless draw in Nairobi, the Starlets traveled to Sousse, Tunisia where Tereza Engesha’s early strike in the ninth minute gave Kenya a 1-0 win and a spot in the final round.
In the first leg at Nyayo Stadium, Mwanalima Adam opened the scoring in the 12th minute before Fasila Adhiambo made it 2-0 seven minutes later. Just before the break, youngster Shalyne Opisa added a third to seal a 3-1 victory at home.
In the return leg, the team recorded a 2-0 win, with Mwanalima Adam’s lone goal finding the back of the net in the 56th minute, completing the job and confirming their place at next year’s tournament in Morocco.
Head Coach Beldine Odemba praised her players’ commitment throughout the qualification campaign noting that they have waited for this moment for a long time.
She said the girls have shown great character and heart in every game noting that it has not been easy, but they stayed focused and believed in their goal, to bring Kenya back to the WAFCON stage.
She also emphasized the importance of preparation and teamwork noting that every training session, every friendly and every camp has built us up to this.
“The players deserve all the credit for their discipline and effort. We are proud of what we’ve achieved, and now we look ahead to Morocco,” she said.
As the Starlets turn their focus to the 2026 WAFCON in Morocco, one thing is certain, Kenya is back on the continental stage, stronger and more determined than ever
The other teams that have qualified for WAFCON include; Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, South Africa, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Algeria, Ghana and Cape Verde.
By Anita Omwenga
