Harambee Starlets’ forward Mwanahalima ‘Dogo’ Adam etched her name in the history books on Sunday, becoming the first Kenyan player to feature in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) in the United States. Dogo made her much-anticipated debut for Kansas City Current, coming on as a substitute in the 65th minute during their clash against Washington Spirit. Despite her team’s 4-1 defeat, Dogo expressed her pride and excitement at achieving a significant milestone in her football career.
The 26-year-old entered the fray with Kansas City already trailing 3-1, replacing Claire Hutton. Her introduction, however, did not change the course of the match, as Washington Spirit added another goal to secure their victory. The loss ended Kansas City’s six-match unbeaten run in the league. Despite the unfavorable result, Dogo remained optimistic and grateful for the opportunity to represent Kenya on such a prestigious platform.
“I’m very happy to join and play for Kansas City Current because I think it is every player’s dream to play at such a level,” Dogo remarked after the match. “The league is on, but for me, it is the beginning, and I will fight to ensure that I give more respect to our Kenyan flag here. I’m happy, and I thank God for this move. I hope it will open doors for more teammates to this side.”
Dogo’s journey to the NWSL has been a remarkable one, characterized by hard work, determination, and a relentless pursuit of her football dreams. Her professional career began with Mombasa Olympic while she was still in high school, showcasing her talent at a young age. In 2018, she signed with Thika Queens, a former powerhouse in the Kenyan Women’s Premier League, where she quickly established herself as one of the top players in the league.
During the 2020/21 season, Dogo led Thika Queens to an undefeated record and finished as the league’s top scorer, a testament to her scoring prowess. Her outstanding performances did not go unnoticed, and in 2021, she earned a move to Europe, signing with Hakkarigücü Spor in Turkey.
Dogo’s impact in the Turkish Super League was immediate. She scored her first professional hat-trick on April 2, 2022, in a commanding 6-0 victory over Dudullu, bringing her season tally to 11 goals in 17 games. Her leadership qualities also shone through, and she was named captain of Hakkarigücü Spor in 2023.
Dogo’s decision to join Kansas City Current marks another significant step in her career. The move to the NWSL, widely regarded as one of the most competitive women’s football leagues in the world, presents a new challenge for the Kenyan star. It also places her on a global stage, where her talents can be recognized and appreciated by a broader audience.
While her debut may not have yielded the desired result, Dogo’s resilience and determination suggest that she will make a significant impact at Kansas City Current. Her arrival in the NWSL also serves as an inspiration for other Kenyan players, demonstrating that it is possible to reach the highest levels of the sport with dedication and hard work.
As Dogo continues to adapt to her new environment and the demands of the NWSL, her focus remains on improving her game and representing Kenya with pride. She hopes her success will pave the way for more Kenyan players to venture into top leagues around the world.
“I hope it will open doors for more teammates to this side,” Dogo said, signaling her desire to see more Kenyan talent on the global stage. With her debut now behind her, Dogo will look to build on this experience and help Kansas City Current in their quest for success in the NWSL.
