Harambee Starlets Bow Out of WAFCON 2026

Rabat, Morocco | August 4, 2026

Kenya's Harambee Starlets have concluded their 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign after a difficult run in the continental tournament, bringing an end to their quest for success against Africa's top women's football nations.

The Harambee Starlets finished bottom of Group A without a point after losing all three of their matches against Morocco, Algeria and Senegal. Despite moments of determination and resilience throughout the tournament, the team was unable to secure the results needed to reach the quarter-finals.

Head coach Beldine Odemba praised her players for their commitment and fighting spirit throughout the competition, noting that the experience gained against some of Africa's strongest teams would be valuable in the team's future development. Football stakeholders have also commended the squad for representing Kenya on the continental stage despite the disappointing results.

The campaign highlighted areas requiring improvement, including finishing, defensive organisation and consistency against top-level opposition. At the same time, it provided an opportunity for several players to gain invaluable experience competing at one of Africa's biggest football tournaments.

Although WAFCON 2026 ended in disappointment for the Harambee Starlets, the team leaves the tournament with lessons to build on as attention shifts to upcoming international competitions and future qualification campaigns.The focus now shifts to future international competitions, with the Harambee Starlets expected to build on the experience gained during the tournament as they prepare for upcoming qualification campaigns.