NAIROBI, Kenya – President William Ruto has congratulated the Harambee Junior Starlets for securing Kenya’s place at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, describing the team’s achievement as proof that investment in young talent is transforming the country’s sporting future.
Speaking during a breakfast meeting at State House, Nairobi, on Tuesday, the President said the girls had made the nation proud after qualifying for the global tournament for the second time in Kenya’s history.
The Junior Starlets booked their ticket to the World Cup in Morocco after defeating South Africa 3-1 at Nyayo National Stadium to complete a commanding 5-1 aggregate victory.
Ruto said the players had demonstrated resilience and determination by overturning a first-half deficit before producing a dominant second-half performance.
“You are going to Morocco to wear the colours of Kenya on the biggest stage in world football. There is no greater honour for any sportsman or sportswoman than representing your motherland before the world,” he said.
The President singled out Gaudencia Maloba, whose second-half equaliser sparked Kenya’s comeback, saying her story should inspire girls across the country to believe in their potential regardless of their background.
He also praised 16-year-old Elizabeth Opiyo, a Grade Nine student from Siaya County, for successfully balancing academics with football and athletics, describing her as an example of discipline and determination.
Ruto paid tribute to head coach Mildred Cheche, saying she had achieved a historic milestone by guiding a Kenyan national team to the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup twice.
He also recognised the contribution of the technical bench, trainers, physiotherapists and support staff, calling them the “unsung heroes” behind the team’s success.
The President challenged the Junior Starlets to aim beyond qualification and compete for a place in the knockout stages when they travel to Morocco.
He noted that Kenya’s previous appearance at the tournament in the Dominican Republic saw the team register a memorable victory over Mexico despite defeats to England and North Korea.
Beyond celebrating the qualification, Ruto said the government’s long-term strategy was to strengthen grassroots sports development across the country.
According to the President, more than 10,000 young athletes are currently enrolled in structured development programmes through schools, county governments and the Kenya Academy of Sports.
He added that over 6,000 coaches, trainers, physiotherapists and sports administrators have undergone specialised training to improve talent development.
The Head of State also highlighted ongoing investment in sports infrastructure, revealing that Talanta Sports City is now 95 per cent complete, while 32 modern stadiums are under construction nationwide.
He said the government invested Sh4.5 billion in the last financial year to support national teams through player welfare, accommodation, training, equipment and logistics.
Ruto also congratulated the Harambee Starlets for qualifying for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), saying both teams had raised Kenya’s profile on the continental and global stage.
As the Junior Starlets prepare for the World Cup in Morocco, the President urged them to carry the hopes of millions of Kenyans and make more history on football’s biggest stage.