Shakava, Akinyi picking vital lessons as Harambee Starlets prepare for WAFCON assignments
Harambee Starlets defender Diana Shakava and forward Purity Akinyi have expressed growing confidence in the camp as they learn from the experienced members of the squad, while the national women’s football team prepares for the upcoming 2026 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations.
Speaking on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at Kasarani Stadium, where the team is honing the skills ahead of the continental showpiece in March 2026, Shakava and Akinyi admitted that they are learning from the best, hoping to cement their positions in the national team.
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”Everything is well in the camp, we are interacting and learning from each other. I am learning from the best, the best coaches and best players. I am looking forward to becoming a better player from here,” Shakava stated.
On her part, Purity Akinyi said: ”The training has been good; there are things that I am also learning to become a better player. The experience is fantastic; it is all about self-confidence because the journey has always been difficult. It is just hard work.”
Meanwhile, Harambee Starlets head coach Beldine Odemba had initially named a 34-player provisional squad ahead of the final phase of preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. The team reported to camp on Sunday, February 15, 2026, as build-up continues for the continental tournament scheduled for March 17 to April 3, 2026.
Graduates step up
The provisional squad also features eight players from the Kenya U20 Women’s National Team, the Rising Starlets, who continue to make the transition into the senior setup. Elizabeth Ochaka, Lorine Ilavonga, Fasila Adhiambo, Valerie Nekesa and Elizabeth Mideva retain their places, while Diana Ochol, Vidah Okeyo and Lornah Faith earn their first senior national team call-ups.
Their progression highlights the technical bench’s commitment to creating a pathway for young players to gain exposure at the highest level while strengthening the depth of the senior team.
Key returns and new faces
The provisional squad also sees the return of experienced players Jentrix Shikangwa and Lorna Nyarinda, who are back in the national team setup ahead of the WAFCON preparations.
Both players have previously featured for the Harambee Starlets, and their return strengthens competition for places as the team builds towards the final squad for the tournament.
There is also a maiden call-up for Trinity Starlets forward Eglay Mukhwana, who earns her first senior national team selection following consistent performances at the club level.
Final WAFCON build up
With the tournament fast approaching, the provisional camp will play a key role in shaping the final squad that will represent Kenya at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
The upcoming FIFA international window, scheduled between February 24 and March 7, offers an opportunity for the team to further test combinations and match readiness. Plans are in place to explore possible friendly matches during this period as part of the wider build-up.
As the Harambee Starlets return to the continental stage ten years after their debut appearance in 2016, the focus remains on steady preparation, unity within the camp, and creating the right environment for the team to compete strongly against Africa’s best.
Provisional Squad
Goalkeepers
Annedy Kundu (Kenya Police Bullets), Lilian Awuor (Farul Constanta), Vivian Shiyonzo (Kibera Soccer Women), Juliet Adhiambo (Trinity Starlets)
Defenders
Ruth Ingosi (Simba Queens), Dorcas Shikobe (Sirens of Grevena),Enez Mango (Farul Constanta), Vivian Nasaka (Hakkarigucuspor), Elizabeth Ochaka (Kenya Police Bullets), Diana Ochol (Kenya Police Bullets), Lorine Ilavonga (Ulinzi Starlets), Mercyline Mejor(Trinity Starlets), Mary Majeso (Kibera Soccer Women), Euphraiser Shilwatso (Kayole Starlet), Diana Shakava (Ulinzi Starlets), Elizabeth Muteshi (Trinity Starlets)
Midfielders
Lydia Akoth (Yanga Princess), Vidah Akeyo (Kenya Police Bullets), Lorna Nyarinda (Kenya Police Bullets),Medina Abubakar (Kenya Police Bullets9), Fasila Adhiambo (Simba Queens), Martha Amunyolet (Vihiga Queens), Lornah Faith (Butere Girls), Mwanalima Adam (HB Koge), Shaline Nambengele (Ulinzi Starlets).
Forwards
Violet Nanjala (United Eagles FC), Elizabeth Wambui (Simba Queens), Jentrix Shikangwa (Simba Queens), Shirleen Opisa (Amus College), Airin Madalina (Vihiga Queens), Valerie Nekesa (Soccer Assassins), Elizabeth Mideva (Ulinzi Starlets), Eglay Mukhwana (Trinity Starlets), Purity Akinyi (Shabana Starlets)
