Harambee Starlets forward Violet Nanjala has made a pivotal decision to return to her former club, Municipal de Laayoune, in Morocco after her planned move to the Israel Women’s Premier League was abruptly halted due to escalating security concerns amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
Nanjala, who had been on the brink of joining an Israeli club, found her plans derailed by the worsening situation in the region. The conflict, which has seen over 40,139 Palestinians killed and 92,743 injured in Gaza since October 7, has made it untenable for international players to consider playing in Israel. Given the gravity of the situation, Nanjala decided against moving forward with the transfer, opting instead for the safety and stability of a familiar environment.
Reflecting on the situation, Nanjala stated, “It’s true that I will not go to Israel due to security reasons. The deal was almost done, but due to the ongoing war in Gaza, I was forced to rescind.” The decision, though difficult, was necessary given the risks involved in relocating to a war-torn region.
Her previous club, Municipal de Laayoune, quickly stepped in to offer her a new contract after learning of her change in plans. The Moroccan side, where Nanjala had initially spent two successful years, was eager to have her back. Nanjala’s contributions during her first stint with the club were significant, as she helped them secure a third-place finish in her debut season while emerging as the top scorer with an impressive tally of 23 goals in 26 matches. Her ability to consistently find the back of the net made her an invaluable asset to the team.
Nanjala, an alumnus of Archbishop Njenga High School in Kakamega County, Kenya, has had a promising career trajectory since her early days. After completing high school, she joined Trans Nzoia Falcons, where her goal-scoring prowess quickly became evident. In the 2020 season, she finished as the second-best scorer, narrowly missing the top spot by just one goal behind Mwanahalima Adam Jereko of Thika Queens. Her performance attracted the attention of Vihiga Queens, who signed her on loan during the 2020/21 season. Nanjala proved instrumental in the team’s success, scoring one of the two goals that propelled them to victory in Egypt during the inaugural Women’s Champions League.
Given her track record, Municipal de Laayoune’s decision to bring her back was a strategic one. Nanjala has accepted their offer, committing to another season with the club, with an option for extension based on her performance. She is set to return to Morocco on August 29, ready to rejoin her teammates and continue her football journey in a familiar setting.
Nanjala’s story is a testament to her resilience and adaptability. Despite the disappointment of her Israeli move falling through, she has quickly regrouped, securing her future with a club that values her contributions. As she prepares for the upcoming season, Nanjala’s focus will be on replicating, if not surpassing, her previous successes with Municipal de Laayoune.
Her decision also underscores the broader challenges faced by athletes in regions of conflict. The allure of new opportunities must be weighed against the realities on the ground, and Nanjala’s choice reflects a mature and prudent approach to her career. As she returns to Morocco, she does so with the experience and determination that have defined her career thus far, ready to take on new challenges and continue her rise in women’s football.
