Shakava, Akinyi fired up as Starlets step up WAFCON preparations

The national women’s team has intensified preparations in camp, with players expressing confidence that the squad will peak in time for the continental showdown in Morocco next month.

The 34-player provisional squad reported to camp last Sunday at Kasarani ahead of the tournament scheduled for March 17 to April 3 in Morocco.

Ulinzi Starlets defender Diana Shakava, who is making a return to the national team setup, says the current training environment has sharpened her game and boosted her confidence.

“The camp is good. From the way we are interacting, we are getting to know each other and learning from the best coaches and experienced players,” said Shakava.

“I am anticipating leaving here as a better player and, God willing, if I make the squad for WAFCON, I will be grateful for the opportunity.”

Her sentiments were echoed by Shabana Starlets FC striker Purity Akinyi, who has already earned a place in the final squad set to represent Kenya at the tournament.

“The training has been amazing, from the mini-camp to now. I can see great improvement in myself. There are many things I have learnt, and I see myself becoming a better player,” said Akinyi.

“The journey has not been easy. You have to trust yourself and push from the grassroots level to reach this stage. It takes hard work.”

Akinyi was part of the initial 23-member squad named by head coach Beldine Odemba on January 30 for a one-week mini-camp that kick-started Kenya’s WAFCON preparations. The camp, which ran from February 1 to February 6, featured locally based players and laid the foundation for the final squad selection.

Kenya has been drawn in a challenging Group A at the tournament following the official draw conducted on January 15, 2026, in Rabat by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The Harambee Starlets will face hosts Morocco, Senegal and Algeria in what promises to be a fiercely competitive group.

Elsewhere, Tanzania headline Group B alongside Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso and South Africa. Defending champions Nigeria are in Group C with Egypt, Zambia and Malawi, while Group D features Mali, Cape Verde, Ghana and Cameroon.