Harambee Starlets Striker Confident Ahead of WAFCON 2026 Despite Support Concerns: 'Our Fate Has Been Unclear'

Veteran Harambee Starlets striker Mwanahalima Adam Jereko has voiced her disappointment over the government's apparent indifference as the national women's football team prepares for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon).

The team, coached by Beldine Odemba, recently concluded a two-week residential training camp at the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani, Nairobi.

They are scheduled to travel to Côte d’Ivoire for a series of friendly matches before the continental tournament in Morocco, which runs from March 17 to April 3.

Adam highlighted a "deafening silence" from officials, noting that no government representative had visited the camp to offer encouragement.

"No one has visited us in camp so far, yet moral support is as crucial as the training itself," the striker stated on Friday.

"It will not be okay if we travel to Côte d’Ivoire without President William Ruto’s blessings. Mr President and Sports CS Salim Mvurya, show up for the girls the same way you showed up for Harambee Stars."

The striker described the lack of official engagement as demoralising for the players. "Since we arrived in camp, our fate has been unclear. Our fate has been left to God," Adam added. "We would have liked to meet the president for motivation before we leave."

The 25-member squad was set to depart for Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, early Saturday morning. Kenya is slated to play the host nation on March 2 and Benin on March 4.

Following these friendlies, the team will proceed to a 10-day residential camp in Miramas, France, before arriving in Rabat, Morocco, on March 15.

At the WAFCON, Kenya is in Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Senegal, and Algeria. Their campaign kicks off against Morocco on March 17, followed by a clash with Senegal on March 20. Their final group stage match will be against Algeria three days later.

Despite the perceived lack of support, Adam remains optimistic about the team's chances. "We’re not just going to participate; we’re going to compete, and our target is to attain qualification for the World Cup," she declared. "Our group is challenging, but everything is manageable."

A semi-final finish in Morocco would secure the Harambee Starlets a direct spot in the 2026 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. The top four teams from Wafcon qualify automatically, while the other two will enter inter-confederation play-offs.

"Football is unpredictable; there are no underdogs anymore," Adam noted. "We’ve played Morocco and Algeria in friendlies and understand their style. They should be worried about us, too."

Having missed the 2016 Wafcon, Adam is determined to make her mark this time. "I’ve been waiting for this tournament. I’ll give my all so I have no regrets; it’s my time to shine. A win will demonstrate our country’s football growth."