Kenya’s Harambee Starlets made history on Tuesday night by sealing their place at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The national women’s football team defeated The Gambia 1-0 in the second leg of their qualifier played in Senegal, completing a 4-1 aggregate victory after a commanding 3-1 win in Nairobi last week.
The triumph marks a sensational return to the continental stage for the Starlets, who will now feature among 12 teams at the 2026 WAFCON exactly 10 years after their maiden appearance at the tournament.
President Ruto Rewards the Starlets
Following the team’s qualification, President William Ruto congratulated the players and coaching staff, pledging Ksh1 million each for their victory over Gambia.
The Head of State’s gesture is a huge morale boost for Beldine Odemba’s charges, who have worked tirelessly to put Kenyan women’s football back on the African map.
How Much Will CAF Reward the Harambee Starlets?
Beyond the presidential bonus, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) also offers financial rewards to teams that qualify for the WAFCON tournament.
CAF revised its WAFCON prize structure ahead of the 2024 edition held in Morocco. The breakdown was as follows:
- Winners: $1 million (≈ Ksh129 million)
- Runners-up: $500,000 (≈ Ksh64.6 million)
- Third place: $350,000 (≈ Ksh45 million)
- Fourth place: $300,000 (≈ Ksh38.7 million)
- Quarter-finalists: $200,000 (≈ Ksh25.8 million)
- Third in group stage: $150,000 (≈ Ksh19 million)
- Fourth in group stage: $125,000 (≈ Ksh16 million)
Unless CAF increases the prize money for the 2026 edition, Kenya are guaranteed at least Ksh16 million for participating in the tournament — the minimum amount allocated to teams finishing fourth in their groups.
Who Gets the CAF Prize Money?
Unlike President Ruto’s direct cash reward to players, the CAF prize money is paid to member associations in this case, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).
The funds are intended to support the development of women’s football in the country. It will be up to FKF to determine whether part of this reward is distributed to the players or used for infrastructure, training, and preparations ahead of WAFCON 2026.
The Road Ahead for the Harambee Starlets
With qualification now secured, attention turns to the 2026 WAFCON, where Kenya will be looking to make an even greater impact than in their 2016 debut.
Beldine Odemba and her squad have already captured the nation’s attention and with government support, improved funding, and the players’ growing confidence, the Starlets’ future looks brighter than ever.
