Harambee Starlets' Mwanalima Jereko confident of WAFCON 2026 qualification

Harambee Starlets forward Mwanalima “Dogo” Jereko is confident that the team has what it takes to qualify for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

Jereko is among the 36 players named in head coach Beldine Odemba’s provisional squad for the upcoming two-legged qualifiers against Tunisia. The team will kick off their campaign at home on Friday, February 21, 2025, before travelling to Tunis for the return leg on Tuesday, February 25, 2025.

Speaking to Citizen Digital, Jereko, who plays for Kansas City in the United States, emphasized the importance of early preparations. She praised the coach’s decision to blend experienced and emerging talents in the squad.

“I have gone through the squad, and I can say it’s a strong team with a good mix of experienced and upcoming players. I do not doubt that we will defeat Tunisia and go on to qualify for the continental showpiece,” she said.

“Early preparations are key to success. If we start training in good time, we’ll be well-prepared for the North African challenge. I can’t wait to join the rest of the team as soon as I’m released by my club,” she added.

Coach Odemba has introduced 11 new players to strengthen key positions ahead of the qualifiers.

In goal, Vivian Shiyonzo (Kibera Soccer Girls) and Lavender Abongo (KISPED Queens) have earned their first call-ups.

The defensive unit sees the inclusion of Benedete Atieno (KISPED Queens), Alice Mideri (Vihiga Queens), and Tabitha Amoit (Ulinzi Starlets), who have been promoted from the U20 squad. They are joined by Mary Nthambi (Kenya Police Bullets) and Janet Mumo (Kibera Soccer Girls).

In midfield, Yvonne Idagiza (Kibera Soccer Girls) has been added to the squad.

The attack will be bolstered by Faith Mboya (Kibera Soccer Girls), the current top scorer in the FKF Women’s National Super League with Sunderland Samba. Since joining Kibera Soccer Girls, she has already made an impact, scoring a hat-trick in her debut. She will be joined by Catherine Khaemba (Bungoma Queens) and Emily Moranga (Kenya Police Bullets).

Meanwhile, Leila Apiyo and Martha Amunyolet return to the national team after a long absence.

Youngster Elizabeth Ochaka, captain of the Junior Starlets who featured in Kenya’s historic 2024 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup campaign, has earned her second senior team call-up.

Notably, FKF Women’s Premier League top scorers Catherine Khaemba (Bungoma Queens), Rebecca Okwaro (Kenya Police Bullets), and Beverline Adika (Zetech Sparks) have also made the squad.

The team is set to report to camp on Monday, February 10, 2025, as they begin preparations for the crucial qualifiers.