Sports

Harambee Starlets send message to Ruto as elusive WAFCON ticket gets closer

Saturday 25th October, 2025 10:17 AM| By Joel Masibo

The Kenya national senior women’s football team, Harambee Starlets, have extended their gratitude to President William Ruto and the Kenyan government in their journey back to the coveted Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco next year.

Shortly after beating The Gambia 3-1 in the first leg of the 2026 WAFCON qualifiers on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Nyayo Stadium, the team jetted out of the country on Saturday morning, October 25, 2025, for their return leg against the West Africans on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, in Senegal.

Starlets thankful

The team has thanked President William Ruto for honouring his Ksh10 million pledge to them as winning bonuses against The Gambia.

”We wish to sincerely thank H.E. President William Samoei Ruto, the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, and the Government of Kenya in general for their support,” Harambee Starlets said in a statement on Saturday morning.

”Your belief in us continues to inspire our journey and drive our ambition as we push one step closer to the qualification of the 2026 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). Asanteni for standing with us – always,” the statement added.

The Harambee Starlets and Gambia players during their match at Nyayo Stadium: PHOTO/facebook.com/williamsamoei

Also, in her post-match remarks, Harambee Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba stated that cash incentives from President William Ruto play an important motivational factor for the team in their international assignments.

”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.

Ruto pledges support

President William Ruto also thanked the team for their good performance before the home crowd at Nyayo National Stadium, promising to stand with the team further.

”You have made Kenya proud and reaffirmed our nation’s growing strength in women’s sports. 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,” he said.

Heading into the second leg with a 3-1 advantage, the team is on the verge of returning to WAFCON after a 9-year absence.