Harambee Starlets forward Esse Akida believes Kenya has a great chance of returning to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in 2026, provided the team receives the necessary support.
The Starlets recently secured a hard-fought victory over Tunisia, winning 1-0 away from home after a goalless draw in Nairobi. This result saw them progress to the final round of qualifiers, where they will face The Gambia. A win in that fixture would secure their second WAFCON appearance, the first having come in 2016.
Reflecting on the team’s performance, Akida expressed confidence in their abilities. “Looking at the way we played away from home and got a result inspires a lot of confidence. I am very proud of what the girls achieved. Of course, I believe we can go back to WAFCON. We have a chance and a good team, and I hope the Federation can give the team maximum support towards the second qualification round so that we can finish the job.”
Despite her experience and past contributions to the national team, Akida has not received call-ups in recent years. The reasons for this remain unclear, but she remains hopeful for a change in fortunes in the future. She remains open to representing the national team if given the opportunity.
“Of course, I am very much open to playing for the national team if called upon. I am still an active player, and it is just that I am yet to pick my next team, but I am very much available. I haven’t even thought about retirement. I am still working on getting a new team and have been doing my best to keep fit as I wait for the best opportunity.”
Akida is optimistic about the progress of women’s football in Kenya, citing the recent achievements of both the senior team and the U17 squad, which made history by qualifying for the World Cup last year. However, she believes that more investment is needed to elevate the game further.
“It was a hugely proud moment for all of us when the young girls made it to the World Cup. It shows that women’s football needs just a little support, a little investment to grow. We invested a bit in the U17 girls’ team, and we showed the world what we can do. If this is done more, then the potential is immense.”
She also pointed out the disparity in support between men’s and women’s football in Kenya, emphasizing that a more balanced approach could yield great results. “If the federation can give even 50 percent of the support they give to the men’s team to women, I believe we can go far. Our leagues are not sponsored or supported as the men’s, and we need just a bit of investment. We will show the world that indeed we have a talented pool of women footballers in Kenya.”
As she carefully weighs her next move, Akida has received several offers but is taking her time to make the right decision.Esse Akida Urges Support for Harambee Starlets’ WAFCON Qualification Bid
