By: James Kilonzo Bwire
Kenya’s Junior Starlets have made history by qualifying for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup for the first time, following a commanding 5-0 aggregate victory over Burundi in the qualifiers. The decisive second leg, held on June 16, 2024, at the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi, saw the Starlets win 2-0, solidifying their place in the tournament scheduled from October 16 to November 3, 2024, in the Dominican Republic. This remarkable achievement not only marks a significant milestone for the Junior Starlets but also for Kenyan football as a whole, showcasing the growing investment in women’s sports within the country.
The Junior Starlets have been drawn into Group C alongside formidable teams: former champions Korea DPR, 2018 finalists Mexico, and England, who have participated twice in the tournament. They will kick off their campaign against England on October 17. Head coach Mildred Cheche expressed immense pride in her team’s accomplishment and emphasized their goal to gain experience and showcase their talent on an international stage.
In recognition of their achievement, each player received a financial reward of Sh300,000 from the Kenyan government. The Ministry of Sports is also providing support for training resources as they prepare for this prestigious event. The Junior Starlets aim not only to compete but to inspire future generations of female athletes in Kenya and break new barriers in women’s football.
The qualification journey has been marked by hard work and determination. The team entered a residential training camp in Nairobi to intensify their preparation, focusing on tactical improvements and team cohesion. Coach Cheche noted that while they may be seen as underdogs against more seasoned teams, their unique playing style could surprise their opponents.
The Kenyan government has shown strong support for the team by rewarding each player with Sh300,000 following their qualification. This gesture is part of a broader initiative to promote sports development in Kenya. The Ministry of Sports has also organized additional training resources to ensure that the players are well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
Many players face a delicate balancing act between their academic commitments and athletic aspirations. Some members of the Junior Starlets are preparing for national exams during the tournament period. The Kenyan National Examinations Council (KNEC) has assured that arrangements will be made to accommodate these players so they can participate fully in both academics and football.
Team captain Elizabeth Ochaka has expressed confidence in her squad’s ability to perform on such a grand stage. She noted that this opportunity is not just about competing but also about showcasing their skills and representing Kenya with pride. The mood within the camp is high, with players eager to prove themselves against top international teams.
The Junior Starlets’ success is expected to inspire many young girls in Kenya to pursue sports. Their journey serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with dedication and support. As they prepare for their matches, they hope to pave the way for future generations of female athletes.
The local community has rallied behind the Junior Starlets as they prepare for this historic event. Fans are eager to support them through various initiatives aimed at raising awareness and encouraging attendance at matches. This backing is vital as it fosters a sense of national pride and unity around women’s sports.
As Kenya’s Junior Starlets embark on this unprecedented journey at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, they carry with them not only hopes of personal success but also the aspirations of an entire nation. Their story is one of resilience and ambition—a testament to what can be achieved when young women are given opportunities to excel on an international platform.
James Kilonzo Bwire is a Media and Communication Practitioner.
