Kenya has been selected to host the 2026 FIFA Women’s Series matches, marking the country’s first-ever staging of a global football event under FIFA.
In an announcement made by Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, the government welcomed participating nations including India, Australia, and Malawi, alongside officials and fans from across the globe.
The matches are scheduled to take place on April 11 and April 15, 2026, at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi.
The tournament is expected to provide a major platform for the growth of women’s football in the country, with Kenya’s national team, the Harambee Starlets, set to headline the event on home soil.
Mvurya expressed confidence in the team’s ability to perform, noting that the competition will help elevate Kenya’s profile in the global football landscape while offering players valuable international exposure.
Kenya has also been included among 48 nations in the broader FIFA international friendly series, a move expected to strengthen the country’s football ecosystem through increased competitiveness and experience.
The selection is seen as a strong endorsement of Kenya’s growing reputation as a host of major sporting events.
The country has previously staged high-profile competitions such as the African Nations Championship (CHAN), the World Rugby Sevens Series, and the WRC Safari Rally.
According to Mvurya, the milestone reflects deliberate government policy and sustained investment in sports under President William Ruto.
Key infrastructure projects include the development of the Raila Odinga International Stadium, alongside the modernization of Nyayo and Kasarani stadiums to meet international standards.
The FIFA Women’s Series will also serve as a crucial test event for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Kenya will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania.
Mvurya reaffirmed the government’s commitment to delivering a successful tournament, noting ongoing collaboration with the National Treasury and Parliament to secure the necessary funding.
The Sports CS urged Kenyans to turn out in large numbers to support both the Harambee Starlets and the men’s team, the Harambee Stars, who are currently participating in international friendlies in Kigali.
He emphasized that strong fan support would not only inspire the teams but also showcase Kenya’s unity, passion, and hospitality to the world.
Mvurya also commended the Football Kenya Federation for ongoing reforms aimed at improving governance and restoring credibility in the sport.
He said FIFA’s decision to award Kenya hosting rights reflects growing international confidence in the country’s ability to organize world-class events.
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