Eight years of waiting. Eight years of struggle. But tonight the dream is alive again. Kenya’s Harambee Starlets are back on the continental stage after sealing their place at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
The team secured qualification for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after an impressive aggregate win over The Gambia, marking a triumphant return since their last appearance in 2016.
The Starlets’ qualification journey was more than just a series of matches, it was a story of resilience, patience, and renewed purpose. Since their last WAFCON participation in Cameroon, the team has faced administrative setbacks, funding challenges, and lost opportunities. Yet, through it all, the players’ spirit remained unbroken.
Under the guidance of Coach Beldine Odemba, the team has undergone a steady transformation, blending experienced players with a new generation of young talent determined to restore Kenya’s pride on the continental stage.
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The hero of the tie was undoubtedly Jentrix Shikangwa “Dogo”, who scored in both legs against Gambia. Her clinical finishing and leadership on the pitch reflected not just her growth as a player but also the Starlets’ renewed attacking confidence.
In the first leg, Kenya dominated proceedings, with Dogo’s early goal setting the tone for a disciplined performance. The return leg saw her once again find the back of the net, sealing the aggregate win and sending the team into celebration mode.
With qualification secured, the Starlets will now shift focus to preparing for WAFCON 2024 in Morocco, where they aim to go beyond the group stage, something they narrowly missed in 2016. The tournament will also serve as a platform to showcase Kenya’s progress in women’s football and inspire future generations.
Coach Odemba praised her squad’s dedication, saying the qualification was “a reward for belief, patience, and teamwork.” She added that the focus now is on fine-tuning tactics and ensuring the team is mentally and physically ready for Africa’s biggest women’s football showpiece.
The Starlets’ success is also a reminder of the untapped potential in Kenyan women’s football. With improved structures, consistent support from the federation, and continued investment in local leagues, Kenya could soon become a formidable force in Africa.
For now, the Harambee Starlets have shown the continent that patience and purpose can indeed lead to glory, and that their long wait was worth every moment.
