Our glory abroad should radiate back home, says Starlets' Nanjala

Harambee Starlets striker Violet Nanjala has made a passionate appeal to players who have advanced in their careers to help nurture emerging talents in Kenyan football. 

Nanjala, who also plays for Moroccan club Municipal de Laayoune Football Feminin, emphasized the importance of giving back to the society, saying besides finding football projects, the players can share their wealth of knowledge for maximum returns.

In an interview with Citizen Digital, Nanjala reflected on a tournament she organised in her backyard Trans Nzoia County, saying it was fulfilling to see the beautiful game connecting budding talented players.

“Seeing the community, fans and stakeholders rally together for this initiative is truly inspiring. This is just the start and we are planting seeds of greatness in these young athletes for the future, the same way people also held my hand. I also challenge other players who have succeeded in their careers to give back to the community to the extent they can,” noted Nanjala.

The tournament ended last week, and Nanjala is looking forward to many more - “bigger and better.”

“My vision is to create a network of opportunities for young players nationwide, especially girls who wish to play professional football. Every child deserves a chance to pursue their dreams and showcase their talent,” she asserted.

Nanjala also noted the progress made in the Kenya Women Premier League, saying the competition is improving day by day.

She notably pinpointed the success of Police Bullets who won the just concluded season’s title, edging perennial winners Vihiga Queens. According to her, this shift is an indication of growth, but feels a lot needs to be done to maximise on the potential of Kenyan girls playing football.

“No doubt there are huge strides being made in our game, but that’s just an indication of the potential we have as a country as far as women football is concerned. With more resources and attention, we can achieve so much more,” she averred.

Her sentiments come at a time Kenya is still celebrating Junior Starlets’ qualification for the 2024 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Dominican Republic, set for October this year.

It is Kenya’s first ever football team to qualify for a FIFA World Cup.