Winnie Odinga sends goodwill message to Harambee Starlets ahead of WAFCON
By Luke Oluoch, July 23, 2026As Harambee Starlets prepare to kick off their campaign at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) this Sunday, July 26, 2026, in Morocco, Winnie Odinga has sent a message of encouragement to the team.
In a statement released through the Football Kenya Federation, Odinga praised head coach Beldine Odemba and her squad for ending a nine-year drought to qualify for the continental showpiece.
Rallying call
“Harambee Starlets, all the best as you head to WAFCON. I want you to know that we are all behind you,” she stated.
Hailing their qualification as proof that Kenyan women’s football belongs on the big stage, Odinga rallied the squad to embrace the moment.
“For a very long time, people have asked if Kenyan football could compete on the biggest stages. Today, you are answering that question. Our girls are putting Kenya on the football map and inspiring a whole generation of girls to dream big, play hard, and believe that everything is possible.”
“Go out there, keep flying the Kenyan flag high, and make us proud!she concluded.
Winnie’s message comes as Beldine Odemba’s team ramps up preparation ahead of the games. The 2026 edition of WAFCON kicks off this Sunday, July 26, 2026, and continues to August 16, 2026, in Morocco.
Kenya is pooled in a challenging Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Senegal, and Algeria, as they seek to make it past the preliminary stage, and reach the knockout rounds.
Odemba declares Kenya is ready
However, head coach Beldine Odemba remains confident her squad has built the depth and cohesion necessary to stand toe-to-toe with the continent’s elite.
“Wearing the national colours is both an honour and a responsibility that we do not take lightly,” Odemba said. “We are fully aware that we carry the hopes and dreams of millions of Kenyans. We are committed to giving our very best in every match, training session, and moment of this journey.” Odemba said.
They begin their campaign against Morocco on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat before facing Senegal on July 30, 2026, and Algeria on August 3, 2026.