Harambee Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba has stated that cash incentives from President William Ruto play an important motivational factor for the team in their international assignments.

Odemba made the remarks after Harambee Starlets rallied from a goal down to claim a commanding 3-1 win against The Gambia in the 2026 African Women’s Cup of Nations qualifier on Friday, October 2025, at the Nyayo National Stadium, Odemba said.

On Friday before the fixture, President Ruto promised the team Ksh5 million; he later added another Ksh5 million as winning bonuses. In their return leg scheduled for Tuesday, October 28, 2025, in Senegal, the Head of State has promised individual players Ksh1 million if they win and qualify for the showpiece in Morocco and Ksh500,000 if they draw and still qualify for the tournament.

Money factor

”It was not part of the preparation, but of course, motivation always has a positive impact on the team. Players will always play for something, and they get a promise from 001; they are also looking for it,” Odemba said.

Hrambee Starlets are just a point away from making it back to continental football in nine years, since they made their last appearance in 2016. The tactician said the team is eager to play at the top level once again. She also said that having players who participated in the previous WAFCON has a positive impact on the young members of the team. Midfielders Corazone Aquino, Dorcas Shikobe, and Mwanalima Adam were part of the 2016 team.

”Apart from that, the girls are motivated to win because they want to play in the next Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. It has been nine long years, so there is that urge and hunger to qualify for WAFCON 2026,” Odemba said.

Experience

”To be a champion, you must have champions in your team, so it is a good inclusion; we have three players who participated in the WFCON 2016, and it is also a good motivation to the others. They are speaking about the advantages and why we need to qualify. They are also ready to do it for the second time, so it is truly important to have experience in the team,” she added.

Ruto further encouraged the Starlets to maintain the same energy and focus as they prepare for the return leg away in Banjul, assuring them of the country’s full support.

“As you prepare for the return leg, know that the entire nation stands behind you. Your success is our pride. Keep shining, keep winning, and let the spirit of Harambee continue to unite and propel our nation forward. Hongera Starlets! As promised, nitacheza kama mimi,” the President said.