President Ruto Flags Off JUNIOR STARLETS ahead of U-17 World cup

President William Ruto this evening officially commissioned Kenya's U-17 women's team, the Junior Starlets, as they departed for a residential camp in Spain, before heading to the Dominican Republic for the FIFA U-17 World Cup, set to begin on October 16, 2024 to 3rd November, 2024.

The President, who was flanked by CS Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen  and Sports PS Eng. Peter K Tum, hailed the team for making history as the first Kenyan side to qualify for any FIFA World Cup.

"When history of Kenyan football is written, your names will be inscribed in gold," President Ruto declared. "It has taken us 60 years to get here, and today, you are the trailblazers who made it possible."

The President urged the Junior Starlets to give their all in the tournament, to place Kenya firmly on the global football map.

"You are already history makers. Now, I challenge you to write the final chapter of this journey by bringing home that trophy," he added.

While appreciating the collaboration between the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports and the Ministry of Education, President Ruto reiterated his government’s commitment to grassroots talent development, noting the decision to allocate the Sports Fund exclusively for sports-related purposes.

CS Murkomen echoed the President’s sentiments, expressing gratitude for the government's backing, which has enabled talent development within the school system, with tangible success such as with the Junior Starlets’.

"The ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports invested over 300 million in schools games last year to facilitate the games and develop talents right from the grassroots in schools," he said. "This collaboration has also enabled these girls to represent our country globally while ensuring their education continues."

The CS noted that the world cup experience will be a door opener for many of the players enhancing their careers and future monetization of their football talents.

On her part, the Junior Starlets team Captain Elizabeth Ochaka thanked the government for its support, which ensured smooth preparations, including a residential camp abroad.

"We appreciate the government for supporting us during our training in Kenya and securing our camp in Spain. We promise to give our best and make Kenya proud at the World Cup," Ochaka affirmed.