Africa-Press – Kenya. Harambee Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba has settled on the tried and tested, as she named a provisional squad for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco next month.
Starlets have been in camp for about a week ahead of a build-up programme that will include two international friendlies in Cote d’Ivoire and a residential training camp in Miramas, France.
The Starlets will depart for Abidjan on February 28 to face Benin on March 2 and hosts Cote d’Ivoire on March 4 before proceeding to France for a training camp running until March 15.
At WAFCON, Kenya will open their Group A campaign against hosts Morocco on March 17 before facing Senegal on March 20 and Algeria on March 23.
Meanwhile, former Starlets coach Richard Kanyi has lauded Football Kenya Federation’s support of the Starlets, saying the friendly matches and overseas camp will help sharpen the team ahead of the tournament.
“It’s a great initiative by the federation. This is the only way to prepare our girls well for the tournament,” said Kanyi.
“The friendly matches and the Miramas camp will give the technical bench a chance to assess the squad and identify strengths and weaknesses.”
Kanyi expressed confidence that Kenya can compete despite a difficult group.
“With proper preparation, they can compete strongly. Modern football is no longer about big names; it’s about preparation and teamwork,” he said.
Squad:
Goalkeepers: Annedy Kundu, Lilian Awuor, Vivian Shiyonzo, Juliet Adhiambo; Defenders: Ruth Ingosi, Dorcas Shikobe, Enez Mango, Vivian Nasaka, Elizabeth Ocharo, Diana Ochol, Lorine Ilavonga, Mercyline Mejor, Mary Majeso, Euphrasier Shilwatso, Diana Shakava, Elizabeth Muteshi; Midfielders: Lydia Akoth, Vidah Akeyo, Lorna Nyarinda, Medina Abubakar, Fasila Adhiambo, Martha Amunyolet, Lornah Faith Mwanalima Adam, Shailine Nambengele; Forwards: Violet Nanjala, Elizabeth Wambui, Jentrix Shikangwa, Shirleen Opisa, Airin Madalina, Valerie Nekesa, Elizabeth Mideva, Eglay Mukhwana, Purity Akinyi.
