Harambee Starlets settle in Tanzania ahead of CECAFA tourney

Nanjala, who plies her trade with Moroccan Women Premier League side Atletico De Layooune, is among 23 player squad named on Monday by head coach Beldine Odemba before the team left for Tanzania on Tuesday.

“The blend of experience players and upcoming players is a nice one because we will be sharing experience to junior players for the betterment of the future," she said.

Other notable additions to the squad are Kibera Soccer Women’s midfielder Medina Abubakar Hussein and Vihiga Queens forward Swaum Nanjaka Masungo, who earned their first senior team call-ups.

The tournament serves as build-up to the 2026 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final round qualifier against Gambia. Kenya is aiming to return to the continental stage for the first time since making their debut in 2016.

Kenya will be joined by hosts Tanzania, South Sudan, Burundi, and Uganda in the five-nation regional tournament, organised by CECAFA in collaboration with the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF).

Coach Odemba will use the regional tournament to test her squad’s cohesion and readiness, with sights set on a strong showing both at CECAFA and in the upcoming WAFCON qualifier against Gambia.

Elizabeth Ochaka, Alice Mideri, Tabitha Amoit, Janet Mumo, Ruth Ingosi, Dorcas Shikobe, Enez Mango, Vivian Nasaka

Diana Wacera, Martha Amunyolet, Fasila Adhiambo, Lavender Ann Akinyi, Medina Abubakar Hussein, Corazone Aquino

Emily Morang’a, Swaum Nanjaka Masungo, Faith Mboya, Elizabeth Wambui, Tumaini Waliaula, Violet Nanjala