NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenya has secured a major global sporting breakthrough after being selected to host the FIFA Women’s Series matches in April 2026, marking the first time the country will stage a FIFA global football event on home soil.
The announcement, made by Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Salim Mvurya, signals growing international confidence in Kenya’s ability to organize and deliver world-class sporting events.
The tournament will feature international teams including India, Australia, and Malawi, alongside Kenya’s national women’s team, the Harambee Starlets. The matches are scheduled for April 11 and 15, 2026, at the iconic Nyayo National Stadium, promising an exciting showcase of women’s football while elevating Kenya’s global sporting profile.
Mvurya affirmed that Kenya is ready to welcome participating teams, officials, and fans from around the world, highlighting the country’s diversity, hospitality, and passion for sport.
Kenya’s selection builds on its strong record of hosting major international competitions. The country has successfully staged events such as the African Nations Championship, the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series, the Magical Kenya Open, the WRC Safari Rally, and the Kip Keino Classic.
Beyond hosting duties, Kenya has also been selected among 48 national teams to participate in the FIFA International Friendly Series, a move expected to boost the country’s football ecosystem through increased exposure and competitiveness.
Attention will now turn to the Harambee Starlets, who will carry national hopes on home soil and use the tournament as a springboard to assert themselves globally.
Meanwhile, the men’s national team, the Harambee Stars, are currently in Kigali participating in the FIFA Series matches as part of preparations for upcoming international assignments.
The government attributes this milestone to sustained investment and reforms within the sports sector. Key infrastructure projects include upgrades to Nyayo and Kasarani stadiums, as well as the development of the Talanta Sports Complex, which will host the Raila Odinga International Stadium.
Efforts to strengthen grassroots development are also yielding results, with structured programs across schools, academies, and community competitions enhancing talent identification and progression.
Additionally, partnerships with the private sector and ongoing legislative reforms—such as the Sports Bill 2026 and the Stadium Management Framework—are improving governance, accountability, and Kenya’s attractiveness as a global sports destination.
AFCON 2027 Test Run
Hosting the FIFA Women’s Series will also serve as a crucial test event ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Kenya will co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania.
The tournament is expected to help assess infrastructure readiness, operational efficiency, and overall preparedness as the country builds momentum toward delivering a successful AFCON.
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the success of both tournaments, working closely with stakeholders including the National Treasury and Parliament to meet financial and logistical requirements.
The Football Kenya Federation has also been commended for ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening governance and restoring credibility within the sport.
As Kenya prepares to welcome the world, Mvurya has called on citizens to rally behind the national teams and showcase unity, pride, and the enduring spirit that continues to define the nation on the global stage.
The 2026 FIFA Women’s Series now stands as a landmark moment for Kenyan football—one that could redefine the country’s place in the global sporting arena while inspiring a new generation of talent.
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