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The Morocco-based forward voiced deep concern over the poor treatment and lack of support for Harambee Starlets, warning it could affect their WAFCON performance.
Harambee Starlets striker Violet Nanjala has spoken out against the unequal treatment of the Kenyan women's national football team, highlighting the stark contrast between their conditions and those of their male counterparts, the Harambee Stars.
In an interview with Tata Sports, Violet Nanjala emphasised the need for fairness. Nanjala pointed out that Harambee Starlets are struggling due to unpaid allowances.
Violet Nanjala revealed that the team is still owed money from a match played months ago, and they are still expected to show up when called for assignments.
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"How can we play in February and still not be paid months later? Then another match is scheduled, and the previous dues haven't been cleared,” she revealed, noting that it is one of the reasons why some players decline national team call-ups.
“It's not right. When players ask about their pay, it creates an uncomfortable situation. Some players don't show up because they feel like they're playing for free. If nothing is said, you wonder if it's worth it."
Violet Nanjala said that if the players were informed in advance that there would be no allowance, they would at least understand they were representing their country.
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Violet Nanjala Expresses Concerns Ahead of WAFCON Qualifier Match
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With the WAFCON qualifier against Gambia approaching, Violet Nanjala worries about the team's morale.
Violet Nanjala further urged football authorities not to let situations escalate to the point where they have to be publicly called out to fulfil their responsibilities.
"We have a crucial game coming up, and we want to give our best. But unpaid allowances and a lack of communication create tension," she said.
"We may stay silent, but we're the ones on the ground feeling the impact. We hate losing, but poor motivation and preparation often lead to poor results."
Harambee Starlets Should Be Treated Like Harambee Stars
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Violet Nanjala stated that women should receive the same treatment as men in football, noting that the disparity between how the Harambee Starlets and Harambee Stars are treated is significant.
She explained that the women’s team often has to request basic provisions, something the men’s team rarely struggles with, which, she said, negatively impacts their focus and motivation.
"Equal treatment will push us to perform even better. Favouritism kills our spirit. Look at other countries where women's teams are treated equally to men's teams, you can see how far they've progressed," she added.
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Nanjala also pointed to the significant pay gap between male and female players in the Kenyan leagues.
"Some women players earn Ksh10,000 a month, while male players can earn up to Ksh200,000. That's a huge gap," she exclaimed.
"If you're based in Nairobi, you have rent, family to support, and training. That Ksh10,000 disappears instantly."
In light of her concerns, Violet Nanjala's candid remarks echo a broader call for reform within Kenyan football. As the Harambee Starlets prepare for the crucial WAFCON qualifier, the urgency to address inequality, improve communication, and boost player morale has never been clearer.
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