Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed has exuded confidence that the Harambee Starlets are poised to conquer Africa. Speaking after the draw for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), Mohammed declared that Kenya’s preparation has been "meticulous and unprecedented," signaling a shift from the chaotic preparations of the past.

Kenya has been drawn in a tough Group B alongside giants Nigeria, Zambia, and Tunisia. However, the FKF boss believes the team’s recent training camps in Europe and the tactical acumen of head coach Beldine Odemba have closed the gap. "We are not going there as tourists," Mohammed stated. "We are going to compete. The girls have been paid their allowances, the kits are ready, and the spirit is high."

A New Era for Starlets

The upbeat mood reflects the administrative stability brought by Hussein Mohammed’s tenure. Unlike previous tournaments marred by boycotts and travel scandals, the 2026 campaign appears fully funded and organized.

• The Group of Death: Coach Beldine Odemba acknowledged the challenge but remained defiant. "Nigeria has the history, Zambia has the stars, but we have the hunger," she said. "We have analyzed their play. We know how to hurt them."
• Infrastructure Legacy: With Kenya also prepping to host future tournaments, the WAFCON participation is seen as a litmus test for the country's sporting renaissance.

The Starlets open their campaign against the Super Falcons of Nigeria on July 4th. For the first time in years, the focus is purely on football, and the nation is daring to dream.