Ruto Sends Powerful Message To Harambee Starlets After Qualifying For WAFCON

President William Ruto has congratulated Harambee Starlets for qualifying for the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). 

The national women’s football team sealed their place at the continental tournament after a commanding 4–1 aggregate victory over The Gambia.

The Starlets secured a crucial 1–0 win in the decisive second leg played on Tuesday at the Stade Lat Dior in Thies, Senegal, a neutral venue since The Gambia does not have a CAF-approved stadium. 

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This victory followed their impressive 3–1 triumph in the first leg at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi last Friday.

“Warm congratulations to our brilliant Harambee Starlets for their 1–0 victory over Gambia, sealing a 4–1 aggregate triumph that books Kenya’s place at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco,” wrote President William Ruto.

“This decisive win is a glowing testament to the discipline, talent, and indomitable spirit of our women footballers; and to the remarkable leadership of the technical bench. You have made Kenya immensely proud and reaffirmed Kenya’s rise in women’s sports. As you march toward WAFCON, know that the entire nation celebrates you and is behind you,” he concluded.

Starlets coach Beldine Odemba made two key changes to her starting lineup from the first leg, bolstering the defense with Vivian Nasaka and Tabitha Amoit, who replaced Elizabeth Muteshi and Lorine Ilavonga. 

Lilian Awuor retained her spot between the posts, shielded by captain Ruth Ingosi and the dependable Enez Mango. 

The midfield trio of Mwanahalima Jereko, Ann Akinyi, and Martha Emedot provided balance and creativity, while Elizabeth Wambui, Sheylene Opisa, and Fasilah Adhiambo led the attack.

The match began on a tense note, with The Gambia showing attacking intent and testing Kenya’s resilience early on. 

Gambian captain Foutamata Minteh came close in the 16th minute with a powerful long-range effort that sailed narrowly over the crossbar. Kenya, however, held firm thanks to the heroic saves of goalkeeper Lilian Awuor and the defensive organization of Ingosi and Mango.

After a goalless first half, Kenya broke the deadlock five minutes into the second half. A long ball from Elizabeth Wambui caused confusion in the Gambian box, and Fasilah Adhiambo was quick to capitalize, slotting the loose ball into an empty net. The goal sealed the match and confirmed Kenya’s long-awaited return to the continental stage.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya and Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Dr. Raymond Omollo joined President Ruto in praising the team’s achievement.

“You have rewritten history and proven to the world the immense potential of our ladies, a testament that Kenyan football truly knows no limits. Your qualification for WAFCON 2026 in Morocco is a landmark achievement that fills the nation with immense pride,” wrote Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya.

“Your tactical brilliance, determination, and unity on the pitch continue to inspire a new generation of young female athletes to dream big and believe in their power. As affirmed by H.E. President William Ruto, the pledge stands: a reward of KSh 1 million for each player in recognition of this outstanding victory and qualification. The journey to greatness continues.”

“Congratulations to the Harambee Starlets for their remarkable 1–0 victory over Gambia in today's qualifiers, securing Kenya's qualification for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON),” wrote Principal Secretary Dr Raymond Omollo.

“We celebrate this well-deserved achievement and stand firmly behind you as you prepare to represent our country on the continental stage.”