Harambee Starlets’ seven-place rise in FIFA rankings highlights their progress, WAFCON qualification hopes, challenges and the future of Kenyan women’s football.
On Thursday, March 3, 2025, world football’s governing body, FIFA, released its latest global rankings, providing a fresh perspective on the performance of national teams.
For Kenya, the Harambee Starlets made headlines by climbing seven places to position 149 in the world. This rise is a significant achievement, reflecting their recent performances and growing potential in African women’s football.
Their progress is largely attributed to their impressive results in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers.
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A well-fought goalless draw in Nairobi set the stage for a dramatic 1-0 victory in Tunis, securing their place in the final qualification round against Gambia.
A reflection of progress and the growing status of Harambee Starlets
Harambee Starlets’ leap in the rankings is more than just a statistic as it symbolizes the steady progress the team has made over the years.
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International rankings play a crucial role in a team’s reputation, affecting tournament seedings and opportunities for high-profile matches. For Kenya, this climb signifies that they are becoming more competitive, especially within East Africa, where they now rank third behind Ethiopia and Tanzania.
Much of this success is credited to the team’s recent performances on the pitch. The crucial victory against Tunisia was a statement win, proving that the Starlets can compete against formidable opponents.
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The players displayed remarkable discipline, tactical awareness, and resilience, all qualities instilled by head coach Beldine Odemba, whose leadership has been instrumental in shaping the team’s recent success.
In addition to strong coaching, the players themselves have stepped up, with notable improvements in teamwork, defensive organization, and finishing in front of goal.
Impact on women's football in Kenya and the challenges ahead
The improvement in rankings not only benefits the Harambee Starlets but also shines a spotlight on the broader development of women’s football in Kenya.
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A stronger national team means greater visibility for the sport, inspiring young girls to pursue football and attracting more investment into the game. The rise in rankings can also lead to increased sponsorship and government funding, ensuring that the team receives the necessary support to continue competing at the highest level.
While this progress is encouraging, significant challenges remain. Women’s football in Kenya still faces financial struggles, with inadequate funding affecting player welfare, training facilities, and logistical support.
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Many players have had to deal with delayed allowances and limited resources, issues that need urgent attention if the team is to sustain its upward trajectory.
Another challenge is the need for a more competitive domestic league. While the FKF Women’s Premier League has made strides, it still lacks the level of competition required to consistently produce players ready for international duty.
Greater investment in club football, grassroots development, and structured scouting systems is essential to ensuring a steady pipeline of talent for the national team.
The Starlets also need more exposure to international competition. Regular high-profile friendly matches against stronger nations will help the team develop and prepare for major tournaments.
Currently, the team plays sporadic international fixtures, making it difficult to maintain consistency and build experience against top-ranked opponents.
The road ahead and what needs to be done to sustain momentum
With the crucial WAFCON qualification decider against Gambia on the horizon, the Harambee Starlets have an opportunity to further elevate their status in African football. A win would secure their place in the continental tournament for the second time since 2016, providing an even greater platform to showcase their abilities.
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Preparation for this fixture will be key. The team needs a well-structured training camp, proper logistical support, and, if possible, friendly matches to fine-tune their game before facing Gambia. Morale will also play a significant role; ensuring that players are motivated and well taken care of will go a long way in determining their performance on matchday.
Beyond the immediate qualification battle, there needs to be a long-term strategic vision for the continued growth of women’s football in Kenya.
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Investing in youth development programs, improving coaching standards, and ensuring consistent financial support are critical steps in maintaining and even surpassing the current momentum. The Football Kenya Federation (FKF), alongside corporate sponsors and government agencies, must take a more proactive approach in nurturing the women’s game.