Kenya is set to host the inaugural FIFA Women’s Series (International Friendlies) next month, bringing together four national teams for an international friendlies women tournament to be held at Nyayo National Stadium, in Nairobi County
The competition will feature Kenya’s national women’s team, Harambee Starlets alongside Australia, India, and Malawi, with matches scheduled from April 11 to April 15, 2026.
Hosting the FIFA Women’s Series provides Kenya with an opportunity to strengthen key areas of football development beyond match play.
For Harambee Starlets, the series presents a valuable chance to compete against diverse opposition and gain further international experience
Speaking during the official address on Tuesday at Talanta Plaza in Nairobi the Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy & Sports Salim Mvurya said that the tournament will provide an important platform to showcase emerging talent, particularly in women’s football, and to further elevate Kenya’s standing in the global football landscape.
“I am pleased to announce that Kenya has once again been selected to host the 2026 FIFA Women’s Series Matches, marking a historic milestone as our country hosts a FIFA global football event for the very first time” he said.
CS Mvurya noted that the selection is a strong vote of confidence in Kenya’s proven hosting capability and it affirms what the world and our continent have consistently witnessed ; Kenya’s ability to successfully plan, organize, and deliver world-class sporting events.
“Being able to host a tournament of this nature reflects the progress Kenya is making in sports development. It shows that we are moving in the right direction and strengthening our place on the global map. We appreciate the Federation’s alignment with the broader vision of growing sports in the country.” He said.
“On behalf of the Government of Kenya, I extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to the participating nations, India, Australia, and Malawi, as well as officials, fans, and the global football community.” He said.
Additionally, He said that Kenya has been selected among 48 national teams to participate in the FIFA International Friendly Series.
This participation will strengthen our football ecosystem by providing valuable international exposure, enhancing competitiveness, and building capacity both on and off the pitch.
At the same time, he divulged that Kenya’s men’s national team, Harambee Stars, has departed for Kigali, Rwanda, to participate in the FIFA Series Men’s matches, an opportunity that will sharpen performance, build team cohesion, and strengthen our competitiveness ahead of future assignments.
He called upon all Kenyans to rally behind our national teams, affirm our unwavering support, and stand united as one nation. Let us continue to uplift our players, inspire confidence, and demonstrate to the world the strength of Kenya’s football spirit
“Our track record is clear and consistent. From the African Nations Championship (CHAN), the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series, the Magical Kenya Open, the upcoming World Athletics Continental Tour -Kip Keino Classics, to the just concluded WRC Safari Rally, we continue to demonstrate that Kenya is a trusted destination for global sport” he said.
On his part , Football Kenya Federation(FKF) President Hussein Mohammed welcomed the development, noting its significance for the growth of the game in the country noting that his exposure contributes to building local capacity and aligning with global standards in tournament delivery.
He said that the tournament will support growth in event organisation, operational planning, and match officiating, while also offering valuable experience in managing international competitions.
“Hosting this tournament is a big step for Kenya’s football. It not only gives our national team valuable international exposure but also strengthens our capacity to organise and deliver competitions at the highest level. We thank the Government for their support and collaboration in making this possible.” Said Mohammed.
The tournament will kick off on Saturday, April 11, with two matches lined up at Nyayo Stadium. Harambee Starlets will face India at 6.00 pm in the day’s headline fixture, while Australia will take on Malawi earlier at 2.00 pm at the same venue.
The tournament will conclude on Wednesday, April 15, with the third-place playoff set to be played at 2.00 pm, followed by the final at 6.00 pm to determine the inaugural FIFA Women’s Series champion.
By Anita Omwenga
