President William Ruto has reached out to the Kenya National Women’s team, Harambee Starlets, ahead of their crunch first-leg tie against Gambia on Friday, October 24, 2025, at the Nyayo National Stadium.
Ruto assured the ladies’ team of the nation’s unwavering support as they seek to take a step towards the WAFCON games with an early advantage.
Kenya’s last appearance at the women’s continental championships came in 2016 under coach David Ouma.
The Starlets exited the competitions at the group stages that comprised Ghana, Mali and Nigeria.
“We are right behind you. The entire nation is watching you, I know it has been nine years. I have told all Kenyans to prepare and come to support you. Make us proud,” he implored.
The president also pledged to reward the girls if they played their part against their Gambian counterparts when the girls pressed him to do something in terms of motivating them.
“You know me, if you play your part, I will play my part, God bless,” he stated.
After the first leg tie, Kenya will travel to Senegal for the return leg tie on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at the Stade Lat Dhior in Thies.
Kenya’s opponent, Gambia, is seeking a maiden appearance at the continental games.
Led by coach Mariama Sowe, the trainer has expressed confidence in her team’s ability to shine on the road.
“We have a blend of professional and local players. I believe they are capable of the task; they are intelligent and skillful. We have added some professionals who are ready for the task. Their presence will motivate the locally based one, and I know they are capable of performing as expected,” she stated.
The Gambians beat Niger 4-1 on aggregate to advance to the final qualifier tie, and Sowe believes the team stands a chance of boosting their qualification chances and making it to their maiden Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
On her part, Fatou Cham Kanteh, the Queens’ captain, emphasised the importance of the team bringing their A-game against Kenya.
Kanteh, also promised to score a couple of goals and an assist against Starlets.
“We are prepared for the clash against Kenya. It is not easy to be in this stage, and it is a motivation in itself. If you come here, we have to give our best match and win,” the Saville attacker stated.
