Kenya’s Harambee Starlets are leaving nothing to chance ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). Head coach Beldine Odemba has named a 34-player provisional squad that signals a serious intent to conquer the continent.
The squad enters a residential training camp this Sunday, February 15, in Nairobi, marking the final countdown to the tournament scheduled for March 17 – April 3 in Morocco.
The headline news is the return of star forward Jentrix Shikangwa. The clinical finisher joins a high-octane attack alongside Mwanalima Adam and Violet Nanjala.
Following a week-long assessment of domestic talent, Coach Odemba has integrated 10 players from the local Kenyan league. “This squad is a blend of experience and the hunger we need to survive Group A,” said Odemba.
The Road to the World Cup
Kenya faces a “Group of Death” in Morocco, pitted against the hosts Morocco, Senegal, and Algeria. With a semi-final spot offering a direct ticket to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the stakes have never been higher for the East African representatives.
The Starlets are back on the continental stage for the first time since 2016, and they aren’t just going to participate—they are going to compete.
Kenya Squad at a Glance
Goalkeepers: Annedy Kundu, Lilian Awuor, Vivian Shiyonzo, Juliet Adhiambo.
Defenders: R. Ingosi, D. Shikobe, E. Mango, V. Nasaka, E. Ochaka, D. Ochol, L. Ilavonga, M. Mejor, M. Majeso, E. Shilwatso, D. Shakava, E. Muteshi.
Midfielders: L. Akoth, V. Akeyo, L. Nyarinda, M. Abubakar, F. Adhiambo, M. Amunyolet, L. Faith, M. Adam, S. Nambengele.
Forwards: V. Nanjala, E. Wambui, J. Shikangwa, S. Opisa, A. Madalina, V. Nekesa, E. Mideva, E. Mukhwana, P. Akinyi.
