Kenya U20 stars link up with Starlets seniors for WAFCON preparation
Harambee Starlets’ preparation for the upcoming 2026 women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) championship has been boosted by the addition of the contingent of the Kenya U20 girls.
Defensive duo Elizabeth Ochaka and Lorrine Ilavonga were among the members of coach Jackline Juma’s Rising Starlets team who joined the senior team counterparts on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
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The team, under Beldine Odemba, was hard at work at the Kasarani Stadium as the final phase of preparations for the continental games intensified.
U20 contingent
Fasila Adhiambo, Valerie Nekesa, Lorna Faith Wasike, Kenya Police Bullets pair Diana Anyango and Vidah Okeyo, and Elizabeth Mideva, the match hero in Rising Starlets’ abortive quest for the U20 World Cup qualification first-leg clash against Tanzania, also linked up with the team three days after their elimination from the Junior World Cup qualifiers.
Provisional Squad
Odemba named a 34-player provisional squad ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, with the team reporting to camp on Sunday, February 15, for the continental tournament scheduled for March 17 to April 3, 2026.
Kenya will mark its second appearance in the game after ending a nine-year wait. The team’s last taste of the Women’s Championship was in 2016 under Coach David Ouma.
Speaking during the squad unveiling, Odemba described the addition of the youngsters as aimed at offering important aspects of continuity to the team.
Odemba on U20 call-ups
“We are looking at the bigger picture. Integrating players from the U20 team gives us depth and continuity, and it is important for the long-term growth of the national team,” said Coach Beldine Odemba.
The senior team squad sees the return of Simba Queens forward Jentrix Shikangwa and Lorna Nyarinda, who made a return to Odemba’s squad after a brief hiatus.
Ten players who participated in the recently concluded local-based mini camp were also included in the provisional squad, including Kenya Police Bullets, duo Annedy Kundu, Medina Abubakar.
Trinity Starlets forward Eglay Mukhwana also earned her first senior national team selection following consistent performances at the club level.
