Harambee Starlets coach Bedline Odemba has reflected on her journey to transforming the scene of women’s football with pride after she was among the many individuals conferred with state commendation during the Jamhuri Day celebration.

Beldine Odemba was honoured on Friday, December 12, 2025, by President William Ruto with the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS) for her remarkable leadership in guiding the National ladies soccer team to their second continental (WAFCON) tournament.

In an interview with a local TV station on Saturday, December 13, 2025, the former Police Bullets coach said she was not elated to see her efforts coming to fruition.

“I have had the desire to change things in women’s football as a stakeholder. I dreamt of a time when women’s football earned the respect it deserves, and the ladies got paid, and it’s happening. Many teams are now paying the ladies, with the exception of a few,” she stated.

Sponsorship and personal feats

Odemba has, however, cautioned that the long-term objectives would only succeed with continued efforts of seeking partners and sponsorships.

“There is a need for leaders, corporates, the ministry, and the president to collaborate and engage stakeholders to bring in sponsorship and better pay for the clubs. This is crucial in lifting the standards of women’s game,” she added.

The tactician inspired Kenya’s return to WAFCON as they beat the Gambia last month on a 4-1 aggregate.

With the feat, she etched her name in the country’s football history as only the second Kenyan coach to ever attain that milestone.

She also became the first female coach to do it.

 FKF president Hussein Mohammed was among the first to acknowledge her immense contribution to the game.

Mohammed, in a statement on his Facebook page on Saturday, December 13, 2025, termed Odemba’s recognition as a testament to her determination and dedication.

“Congratulations to Coach Beldine Odemba and Mwanalima Adam (Dogo) on their well-deserved national honours,” he said.

“Being recognised with the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS) and the Head of State’s Commendation (HSC) is a powerful affirmation of your dedication, excellence, and the impact you continue to make with the Harambee Starlets and Kenyan football at large. You have made the nation proud,” Hussein stated.