National Economic Development Party (NEDP) leader Mike Sonko has awarded Kenya’s Junior Starlets Sh1 million following their historic qualification for the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, praising the team for making the country proud.
Sonko donated an impromptu harambee after the team’s impressive victory, commending the players and technical bench for their determination and outstanding performance throughout the qualifiers.
He described the qualification as a major milestone for Kenyan football, saying the cash reward was intended to motivate the squad ahead of the global tournament in Morocco.
Kenya Qualify for Second Consecutive World Cup
The Junior Starlets secured their place at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after defeating South Africa 3-1 in the second leg of the final qualification round at Nyayo National Stadium.
The victory sealed a 5-1 aggregate win, earning Kenya a second successive appearance at the global tournament after making its World Cup debut in 2024.
The achievement further underlines the rapid growth of women’s football in Kenya and the success of youth development programmes.
Ruto Congratulates Team
President William Ruto also congratulated the Junior Starlets, applauding the players for their outstanding performance.
Speaking to the team through a video call after Sunday’s match, the President pledged full government support as they prepare for the tournament.
“You have made us very proud. I love you guys; you have made our country proud. Congratulations, and I’m very proud of you. You can count on my support one hundred per cent,” Ruto said.
Cheche Makes More History
The qualification represents another landmark achievement for head coach Mildred Cheche, who guided Kenya to its maiden FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup appearance in 2024.
She has now become the first Kenyan coach to lead a national football team to two FIFA World Cup tournaments.
Ahead of the decisive second leg, Cheche said her players had prepared for every possible outcome despite carrying a first-leg advantage.
“For every game, we prepare for all situations. We prepare for a draw, a loss and a win, but at this particular moment we were preparing for a win,” she said.
Morocco to Host Expanded Tournament
The expanded 24-team FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup will be held in Morocco from October 17 to November 7, 2026.
Kenya will be hoping to improve on its debut campaign in 2024 when the Junior Starlets return to the world stage with greater experience and confidence.
South Africa coach Nompumelelo Khumalo had challenged her side to improve after losing the first leg, but Bantwana were unable to overturn the deficit as Kenya completed a convincing aggregate victory.
