Kenya Secures Historic Hosting 2026 FIFA Women’s Series, Marking First-Ever Global Football Event Under FIFA


Kenya has secured a historic opportunity to host the 2026 FIFA Women’s Series, marking the country’s first-ever staging of a global football event under FIFA.

In remarks delivered following the announcement, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya described the selection as a defining moment for the country’s sporting journey and a strong endorsement of Kenya’s growing reputation as a reliable host of international competitions.

He extended a warm welcome to participating nations—India, Australia, and Malawi—alongside officials, fans, and the global football community, affirming that Kenya is fully prepared to deliver a memorable tournament while showcasing its rich culture, diversity, and hospitality.
The matches, scheduled for April 11 and 15, 2026, will be held at Nyayo National Stadium, providing a key platform to spotlight emerging talent in women’s football and elevate Kenya’s standing in the global game.

Mvurya noted that the hosting rights reflect international confidence in Kenya’s proven ability to stage world-class events, citing a strong track record that includes the African Nations Championship (CHAN), the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series, the Magical Kenya Open, the Kip Keino Classic, and the WRC Safari Rally.

He further revealed that Kenya has been selected among 48 national teams to participate in the FIFA International Friendly Series, a move expected to enhance competitiveness, expand international exposure, and strengthen the country’s football ecosystem.
The Cabinet Secretary expressed confidence in the Harambee Starlets, who will represent Kenya on home soil, urging citizens to rally behind the team. At the same time, he noted that the men’s national team, Harambee Stars, is set to compete in the FIFA Series matches in Kigali, an opportunity aimed at sharpening performance and building team cohesion.

Mvurya attributed the milestone to deliberate government policy, sustained investment, and reforms in the sports sector under President William Ruto. He highlighted ongoing investments in infrastructure, including the development of the Talanta Sports Complex and the modernization of key facilities to meet international standards.

The government is also strengthening grassroots development through academies, school programmes, and structured competitions to ensure a steady pipeline of talent, while deepening partnerships with the private sector to unlock investment and position sports as a driver of economic growth.

Reforms such as the Sports Bill 2026 and the Stadium Management Framework are further enhancing governance, transparency, and global confidence in Kenya’s sports administration.
Importantly, the FIFA Women’s Series will serve as a crucial preparatory event for the Africa Cup of Nations 2027, which Kenya will co-host, offering an opportunity to test infrastructure and operational readiness ahead of the continental showpiece.

Mvurya also commended the Football Kenya Federation for reforms that have restored credibility and strengthened football development in the country.

He concluded by calling on Kenyans to turn out in large numbers to support the Harambee Starlets, emphasizing that the tournament presents a chance to showcase national unity, passion, and hospitality to the world while cementing Kenya’s status as a rising global sporting powerhouse.

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