KENYA TO HOST 2026 FIFA WOMEN’S SERIES

Kenya has been selected to host the 2026 FIFA Women’s Series matches, marking the first time Kenya is hosting a FIFA global football event. “I am pleased to announce that Kenya has once again been selected to host the 2026 FIFA Women’s Series Matches, marking a historic milestone as our country hosts a FIFA global football event for the very first time,” CS Mvurya said in a statement issued on March 24, 2026. The matches will feature India, Australia and Malawi, with Kenya welcoming players, officials and fans from across the world. “Kenya stands ready to receive you and to showcase not only our sporting excellence, but also the warmth, diversity, and hospitality that define the Origin of Wonder,” he added. The matches are scheduled for April 11 and April 15, 2026, at Nyayo National Stadium. The event will provide a platform for Kenya to showcase emerging talent in women’s football while boosting the country’s global football profile. He said the selection reflects growing confidence in Kenya’s ability to host major sporting events. “This selection is a strong vote of confidence in Kenya’s proven hosting capability,” Mvurya said, adding that the country has consistently demonstrated its ability to organise world-class competitions. The Cabinet Secretary cited several events hosted in Kenya, including the African Nations Championship, the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series, the Magical Kenya Open, the Kip Keino Classics and the WRC Safari Rally, as evidence of the country’s experience. Kenya has also been selected among 48 national teams to participate in the FIFA International Friendly Series, which has strengthened the country’s football ecosystem by providing international exposure and improving competitiveness. The Harambee Starlets are expected to lead the country’s charge in the women’s matches. “Our women’s national team, the Harambee Starlets, will proudly carry the nation’s hopes as they compete at home,” he said. At the same time, the Harambee Stars have travelled to Kigali, Rwanda, for the men’s FIFA Series matches. Mvurya said the assignment will help improve performance, build team cohesion and prepare the squad for future competitions. The CS further made a clarion call on Kenyans to support the national team. “Let us continue to uplift our players, inspire confidence, and demonstrate to the world the strength of Kenya’s football spirit,” he said. “This achievement is not accidental. It is the result of deliberate Government policy, sustained investment, and institutional reforms aimed at transforming the sports sector,” he added. He further reiterated that, the government is investing in modern infrastructure, including the Raila Odinga International Stadium, and upgrading Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums to meet FIFA standards. The CS also pointed to ongoing efforts to strengthen talent development through academies, grassroots competitions and school programmes. He added that Kenya is using the tournament to prepare for the Africa Cup of Nations 2027, which it will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania. “This tournament provides a critical opportunity to test our infrastructure, systems, and operational readiness,” Mvurya said. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to delivering a successful AFCON 2027 and urged fans to turn out in large numbers to support the Harambee Starlets during the upcoming matches.