Mariga hails Harambee Starlets for impressive show at FIFA Series
By Joel Masibo, April 16, 2026Football Kenya Federation Vice President McDonald Mariga has hailed the Harambee Starlets following their impressive showing at the just-concluded FIFA Women’s Series Nairobi edition.
Kenya finished as runners-up behind a strong Australian side on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.
Impressive show
In a congratulatory message shortly after the final, Mariga praised the Starlets for their resilience and growth, noting that their performance against the experienced Australia women’s national football team underlined the team’s steady rise on the global stage.
Australia edged Harambee Starlets 2-0 to clinch the title after a commanding display, but Kenya’s journey to second place did not go unnoticed.
“Congratulations to the Harambee Starlets for their commendable performance… finishing as runners-up against a highly experienced Australian side. Well done,” Mariga stated, while also applauding the Matildas for lifting the championship trophy.
The former Harambee Stars and Inter Milan midfielder emphasised that the Starlets’ achievement reflects their determination, discipline, and the growing strength of women’s football in Kenya. Their performance throughout the tournament showcased a team capable of competing at a higher level, offering optimism for the future.
Mariga also took time to recognise the collective effort behind the team’s success. He extended appreciation to the Kenyan government, the Ministry of Sports, the Football Kenya Federation, and the technical bench led by head coach Beldine Odemba for their continued investment and support.
“This milestone marks significant progress and a promising future for the sport in the country,” he added.
The Starlets’ performance in Nairobi is expected to serve as a springboard for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, as stakeholders continue to push for greater investment and exposure in women’s football across Kenya.
Constructive collaboration
At the same time, the Kenyan government has welcomed continued cooperation with the world’s football governing body, FIFA, as it fosters the growth of the game in the country.
Speaking on the matter, Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Salim Mvurya has expressed his elation on the FIFA series tournament that was staged in Kenya, noting such initiatives from FIFA will be helpful and in tandem with the ministry’s relentless efforts to take football to greater heights.
CS Mvurya gave the remark following a high-level meeting with FIFA’s Deputy Chief Member Associations and Regional Director Africa, Gelson Fernandes, on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. The delegation also included FKF president Hussein Mohamed and top CECAFA and COSAFA football officials.
“On behalf of the government of Kenya, we find this occasion to be a continued vote of confidence in how Kenya is making progress in the area of football. Last year, the presidents of FIFA and CAF were here, and this FIFA Series is a continuation and a symbol that Kenya is heading in the right direction in matters of football development,” Mvurya said.