Ten years after their debut, the Kenya women’s national football team is finally back on the continental stage. Known as the Harambee Starlets, the team is ready to make its mark at the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026.
Kenya earned their spot through a brilliant qualifying campaign. They first edged out Tunisia 1-0 on aggregate. Then, they faced The Gambia in the final qualifying round. After falling behind early in the first leg at home in Nairobi, the Starlets fought back to win 3-1. In the second leg played in Senegal, captain Mwanahalima Adam Jereko scored the game’s only goal, sealing a 4-1 aggregate victory and punching Kenya’s ticket to Morocco.
The team is led by head coach Beldine Odema, who has done an exceptional job rebuilding the squad. Odemba has instilled a strong tactical style focused on tight defence, great teamwork, and fast counterattacks. Becoming one of the few female coaches to lead a team at this level is a huge milestone for her and for Kenyan football.
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On the pitch, all eyes will be on captain Mwanahalima Adam Jereko. Known for her incredible speed and creativity, the experienced forward is the heartbeat of the team’s attack. Alongside rising talents Fasila Adhiambo and Shalyn Opisa, Jereko will carry much of the scoring responsibility.
Kenya’s only previous appearance at the tournament was back in 2016 in Cameroon, where they exited the group stage. Now, a decade later, they return with far more experience and confidence.
However, Group A will be a tough test. Kenya has drawn alongside tournament hosts Morocco, Algeria and Senegal. While the group stage will be challenging, the Startlets’ discipline and resilience during qualifiers prove they are ready to compete.
For Kenya, Morocco 2026 is about more than just results. It is a chance to show how much women’s football has grown in the country over the last ten years, prove they belong among Africa’s best, and write an exciting new chapter for the sport.
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