Dogo hails President Ruto for rewarding Harambee Starlets after WAFCON qualification

Kenya will be making a return to the biggest women's football extravaganza in Africa, scheduled to take place from March 17 to April 3, 2026, in Morocco.

The Starlets sealed their qualification with a 1–0 victory over Gambia in the second leg of the third qualifying round played on Tuesday evening at the Stade Lat Dior in Thies, Senegal. The win completed a 4–1 aggregate triumph following their 3–1 victory in Nairobi last Friday.

President Ruto had earlier pledged to award KSh 1 million to each player if the team won and secured qualification for WAFCON, with half that amount promised for a draw and qualification.

Following their first-leg win over Gambia, the President had already awarded the team KSh 10 million—fulfilling a KSh 5 million pre-match pledge and adding another KSh 5 million after the victory.

“As players, we want to thank the President for supporting the girl child. This motivation is a big boost as we prepare for WAFCON,” said Jereko. “I missed the 2016 tournament because I was sitting for my national exams (KCSE), but this time God has been faithful. All we need now is good preparation and adequate time to get ready.”

“Each of the 23 players has received KSh 1 million, while the team collectively received an additional KSh 5 million. Furthermore, 14 technical officials each received KSh 500,000, bringing the total reward package to KSh 35 million,” Mvurya announced.

Road to Morocco

The Starlets’ road to Morocco was marked by resilience and determination. Before overcoming Gambia, Kenya edged out Tunisia in the previous round—drawing at home before earning a vital 1–0 away win, highlighted by goalkeeper Lilian Awuor’s heroics, as she saved two penalties to keep Kenya’s qualification hopes alive.

Squad evolution

The current Harambee Starlets squad has undergone significant changes since the team last qualified for the continental showpiece in 2016 in Yaoundé and Limbe, Cameroon. Only four players from that historic squad remain: Dorcas Shikobe (defender), Mwanahalima Jereko (forward), Lilian Awuor (goalkeeper), and Corazone Aquino (midfielder).

Over the years, the team has seen transitions under several coaches, including David Ouma, who guided the side to its first-ever WAFCON qualification in 2016, as well as Richard Kanyi, Alex Alumirah, and current head coach Beldine Odemba.

Former key players such as Samantha Akinyi, Wendy Achieng, Cheris Avilia, and Christine Nafula have paved the way for the current generation, which includes Annedy Kundu (goalkeeper), Vivian Nasaka (right back), Enez Mango (left back), Llorine Ilavonga (defender), and Martha Amunyolete (midfielder).

Emerging talents

The Starlets have also welcomed promising young players who have integrated seamlessly into the squad. Among them are Janet Mumo (Kibera Soccer Women), Shirleen Opisa (Amus College, Uganda), Catherine Khaemba (Bungoma Queens), Charity Midewa (PalmHill Sports Club), and Diana Cherono (Vihiga Queens).