The Harambee Starlets have named their final 23-player squad for the upcoming CECAFA Senior Women’s Championship 2025, set to take place in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, from June 12 to June 22. The tournament is viewed as a critical part of the team’s preparations for their 2026 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final round qualifier against Gambia.
This marks a significant phase for the Kenyan women’s national team, which is looking to make a strong comeback to the continental stage, having last participated in WAFCON in 2016. The CECAFA competition presents an opportunity not only to contend for regional honors but also to fine-tune tactics, test squad depth, and build chemistry ahead of the high-stakes WAFCON qualifier.
The 23-woman squad features a blend of experienced players and fresh faces, including notable new call-ups such as Medina Abubakar Hussein, a dynamic midfielder from Kibera Soccer Women, and Swaum Nanjaka Masungo, a promising forward from Vihiga Queens. Their inclusion underlines a strategy to inject youthful energy and fresh talent into the squad while maintaining a solid core of experienced players.
Among the goalkeepers selected are Annedy Kundu, Lilian Awuor, and Vivian Shiyonzo. These three will compete for the starting position between the posts, with Kundu bringing vast experience, Awuor offering consistency, and Shiyonzo representing the next generation of talent.
In defense, the squad boasts a strong lineup that includes Elizabeth Ochaka, Alice Mideri, Tabitha Amoit, Janet Mumo, Ruth Ingosi, Dorcas Shikobe, Enez Mango, and Vivian Nasaka. This group brings both experience and versatility, providing the team with several tactical options whether playing with a back three or a flat four.
The midfield unit includes Diana Wacera, Martha Amunyolet, Fasila Adhiambo, Lavender Ann Akinyi, Medina Abubakar Hussein, and Corazone Aquino. Aquino is expected to play a pivotal role as the engine of the team, offering leadership and playmaking ability. The inclusion of young talents like Medina Abubakar adds depth and offers a look into the future of the national team’s midfield.
Up front, the attacking line features Emily Morang’a, Swaum Nanjaka Masungo, Faith Mboya, Elizabeth Wambui, Tumaini Waliaula, and Violet Nanjala. These forwards bring a mix of speed, technical ability, and goal-scoring instincts. The coach will likely use the CECAFA matches to test various attacking combinations and find the most effective formula ahead of the WAFCON qualifiers.
The team is set to report to camp on the evening of June 10 and will depart for Tanzania the following day. The short turnaround before the tournament kick-off adds urgency to their preparation, but the coaching staff is confident that the squad is up to the task.
This CECAFA Championship not only offers a chance to compete for regional glory but also serves as a litmus test for the squad’s readiness for continental competition. With a renewed focus, talented reinforcements, and a clear objective, the Harambee Starlets are setting their sights firmly on a successful campaign in Tanzania and a triumphant return to Africa’s biggest women’s football stage.
