Kenya’s national women’s football team, the Harambee Starlets, have officially booked their place at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) following a 1-0 victory over Gambia in Dakar on Tuesday night. The result, coupled with their 3-1 first-leg win at Nyayo Stadium last week, gave them a 4-1 aggregate triumph and sealed a sensational return to the continental stage after a decade-long wait.
Under the guidance of coach Beldine Odemba, the Starlets demonstrated resilience and composure away from home. Mwanahalima Adam was the hero of the night, netting the decisive goal in the second half to confirm Kenya’s passage to the tournament.
This qualification marks Kenya’s second appearance at WAFCON, their first coming in 2016. The 2026 edition, set to be held in Morocco next March, will feature 12 teams, including powerhouse nations such as Nigeria, South Africa, and Ghana.
WAFCON 2026 Qualified Teams
Morocco (Host), Zambia, Tanzania, Malawi, Algeria, Nigeria, Ghana, Burkina Faso, Kenya, Cape Verde, South Africa, Senegal.
Reward and Recognition
President William Ruto had promised each player and member of the technical bench Ksh 1 million for winning the second leg, further motivating the squad to secure the historic qualification.
Additionally, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has enhanced WAFCON’s prize structure, with significant financial rewards awaiting participating teams. The champions will receive $1 million (Ksh 129 million), while the runners-up will earn $500,000 (Ksh 64.6 million). Third and fourth-placed teams will pocket $350,000 (Ksh 45 million) and $300,000 (Ksh 38.7 million) respectively.
Quarter-finalists will receive $200,000 (Ksh 25.8 million), while even teams finishing last in their groups are guaranteed $125,000 (Ksh 16 million). Unless further adjustments are made, the Harambee Starlets are assured of at least that amount for simply qualifying — a significant boost for Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and women’s football development in the country.
However, CAF’s prize allocations go to member associations, meaning FKF will decide how the funds are distributed. President Ruto’s direct bonus remains a separate incentive exclusively for the players and coaching staff.
Looking Ahead
The Harambee Starlets’ qualification marks a new chapter for women’s football in Kenya. With renewed government support, increased visibility, and growing investment in the women’s game, the team will be eager to make a statement at WAFCON 2026 in Morocco and perhaps go beyond the group stage this time.
