Nyamunyamuh targets KWPL title as Vihiga Queens make strong start to the season

Vihiga Queens head coach Boniface Nyamunyamuh has set his sights on reclaiming the Kenyan Women’s Premier League (KWPL) crown this season, vowing to put in every effort to make that dream a reality.

Nyamunyamuh, who guided the Vihiga-based side to a third-place finish last season with 41 points—eight behind champions Kenya Police Bullets—believes his team’s improved depth and new signings will be key in their quest to dethrone the law enforcers.

The four-time champions have started the 2025–2026 campaign on a flying note, thrashing Bungoma Queens 3–0 in their opening fixture at Bungoma Youth Polytechnic on October 5. They followed that up with a 3–1 victory over Kibera Soccer Ladies and a resounding 6–0 win against Kisumu-based Kisped last Sunday at Moi Stadium.

The three consecutive wins have lifted Vihiga to the top of the KWPL standings with nine points and 12 goals—level with Police Bullets, who trail only on goal difference. Ulinzi Starlets (7), Trinity Starlets (7), and Kayole Starlets complete the top five.

“We’ve had a good start to the season, winning our first three matches, and that has really boosted the team’s morale,” said Nyamunyamuh. “Being on top always comes with pressure, but we make sure to work hard in training and correct mistakes from previous games. That’s the secret behind our early success.”

To strengthen their squad, Vihiga Queens brought in eight new players who have seamlessly blended into the team. Nyamunyamuh believes the new arrivals will play a vital role in their title charge.

The new signings include Tanzanian forward Irene Madalina from Yanga, midfielder Noel Shilachilo, and defender Georgina Mulati from Fountain Gate Princess (Tanzania). The Ugandan trio of Anita Namata (midfielder, Kampala Queens), Sharifah Kabiite (defender, Rines SS WFC), and Damaris Matama (midfielder, Kampala Queens) have also joined the side.

Additionally, the club has reinforced its goalkeeping department with Irene Makhungu from Mombasa Olympics and Abskonoita Shihafu from Gor Queens. The only departure was defender Christine Adhiambo, who moved to Kibera Soccer Women.

Vihiga Queens will next face Ulinzi Starlets this Saturday at Moi Stadium, Kisumu—a match Nyamunyamuh expects to be a tough test.

“Ulinzi are a very strong team and genuine title contenders. We respect them, but we’ll capitalize on our home advantage and work hard to get maximum points,” he said.

The tactician also expressed confidence that the experience gained by three of his players—Martha Karani Amunyolete, Irene Madalina, and goalkeeper Mercy Akoth—who were part of the Harambee Starlets squad that recently secured historic qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), will be invaluable.

“Their participation in the Starlets’ WAFCON qualification campaign has given them great exposure, and I believe their experience will inspire the team as we push for the league title,” he added.