Hussein hails FIFA Series as key boost for Harambee Starlets

In an exclusive interview with Citizen TV ahead of the tournament, Mohamed said Kenyan football is currently going through an exciting period, building on the success of last year’s CHAN and improved global positioning.

Starlets face India on Saturday 5pm at Nyayo, while Australia take on Malawi at the same venue from 3pm, and the winners will play the final as the losers feature in the third-placed playoff.

“The tournament helps us achieve two key objectives. One is the skill set to be able to organise international events of this magnitude or even bigger and the second is it gives exposure of course to Harambee Starlets, which is an opportunity we would never have had if we didn't host this tournament,” said Mohamed.

He emphasised that the event is part of a bigger vision to change the perception and image of Kenyan football.

“We are here to change the perception and image of Kenyan football, and leave a lasting legacy in terms of infrastructure, governance, and in terms of the quality of our national teams when we play international football," he added.

“I think after we do our time at the FKF, the public will judge us according to our performance.”

Mohamed also described the FIFA Women’s Series as just the beginning for women’s football development in the country, noting that it provides a rare high-level competitive platform for the Harambee Starlets.

The tournament, which Kenya is hosting for the first time, is expected to feature strong international opposition and will serve as crucial preparation for the Starlets ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.