Makanya backs Starlets' ace Kaari to shine at Simba

Simba Queens Sporting Director Selemani Makanya says the arrival of Kenyan defender Wincate Kaari at the Msimbazi-based side is a big boost ahead of the 2024 Cecafa Women’s Club Championship.

The Harambee Starlets defender was unveiled by the Tanzanian champions on Wednesday, July 31 as the latest acquisition after ditching rivals Yanga Princess.

Kaari, who recorded 13 assists and two goals for her former team, is now among the new additions to Simba Queens, which include Saiki Atinuke, Precious Christopher, Emiliana Isaya, Josephine Julius and Amina Bilal.

She will also join other Kenyans turning up for the Msimbazi-based side including Vivian Corazone, Jentrix Shikangwa, Ruth Ingosi, keeper Carolyne Rufa and Elizabeth Wambui.

“I can say it’s a very big boost having Kaari in our team. She is a good player with great discipline and agreeable character that I feel will be instrumental to us since we want to win Cecafa and qualify for the CAF Champion’s League later in the year.

"She signed a two year contract, and we hope she will have settled well by the time the Cecafa tournament starts.  We have been on his radar for some time, but she comes at the best time," said Makanya.

"I wish her the very best and believe that her arrival will open for her so many opportunities,” he added.

Kaari who hails from Embu County has also played for Thika Queens in the Kenya Women’s Premier League.

In the Cecafa tourney which is scheduled to kick off from August 17 in Addis Ababa - Ethiopia, Simba are pooled alongside P.V.P Buyenzi (Burundi), Kawempe Muslim Ladies (Uganda), and FAD Djibouti (Djibouti).

Group A consists of new Kenyan champions Police Bullets, Ethiopia heavyweights Commercial Bank (CBE), Yei Joint FC (South Sudan, Warriors Queens (Zanzibar) and Rayon Sport Women’s (Rwanda).

“Our group is very tough but we shall do our best to win the tournament. All teams are good but I believe the good preparations we have had and the quality signings we have done puts Simba in a better position to win the regional showpiece,” added Makanya.