NAIROBI, Kenya - The Harambee Starlets have placed one foot in the door of the 2026 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (WAFCON) following a decisive 3-1 victory over The Gambia in the first leg of their final qualifier on Friday, October 24, 2025. The crucial win at Nyayo National Stadium was bolstered by a significant financial commitment from President William Ruto, who has pledged millions in bonuses to the team.

A draw or a win in the return leg on Tuesday, October 28, in Thiès, Senegal, will secure Kenya's return to the continental stage for the first time since their debut in 2016. The stakes are higher than ever, as the 2026 WAFCON in Morocco will also serve as the qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil, with the top four teams earning a direct ticket.

A Dominant First-Half Performance

Despite conceding an early goal to Gambian forward Fatoumata Kante in the 3rd minute, the Starlets mounted a formidable comeback. Veteran forward Mwanahalima Adam converted a penalty in the 12th minute to level the score after Elizabeth Wambui was fouled in the box. Just seven minutes later, 19-year-old Fasila Adhiambo showcased her skill, beating two defenders to fire Kenya into the lead. Shalyne Opisa sealed the commanding first-half performance with a third goal just before the break, giving Kenya a vital two-goal cushion.

The performance demonstrated the tactical preparation of head coach Beldine Odemba's squad, which has been in an intensive three-week training camp. The victory marks a significant moment for a team seeking to re-establish its presence in African women's football after nearly a decade's absence from the premier tournament.

Government Backing and Financial Incentives

President William Ruto's administration has put significant financial weight behind the team's campaign. On the day of the match, the President awarded the Starlets Ksh. 10 million—Ksh. 5 million as motivation and a further Ksh. 5 million for securing the home win. The announcement was made by Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Salim Mvurya.

Further incentives have been promised to drive the team to qualification. President Ruto has pledged an additional Ksh. 1 million for each player for an away win and Ksh. 500,000 each for a draw. This follows a pattern of the current government offering substantial financial rewards to national sports teams, as seen with the men's team, Harambee Stars, during their recent African Nations Championship (CHAN) campaign. This strategy is part of a broader agenda to professionalize the sports sector and motivate athletes representing Kenya on the international stage.

The Road to Morocco and Beyond

The upcoming WAFCON tournament in Morocco is set to be the largest yet, expanding from 12 to 16 teams. This expansion offers more nations a chance to compete at the highest level of African women's football. For the Harambee Starlets, qualification would not only mark a historic return but also open a direct pathway to the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has been allocated four direct slots for the global tournament.

The return leg against The Gambia will be played at the Stade Lat Dior in Thiès, as Gambia's home stadiums do not meet CAF standards. With a two-goal advantage, the Harambee Starlets are in a strong position to secure their place among Africa's elite. A successful qualification would represent a major milestone for women's football in Kenya, a journey that began with the formation of the first national team in 1985. The nation now watches expectantly, hoping the Starlets can complete their mission and bring home a victory that resonates far beyond the pitch.