Kenya is set to host the 2026 FIFA Women’s Series in April, marking the first time the country will stage a global football event under FIFA, in a move expected to grow women’s football, raise Kenya’s profile in international sport, and support preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Matches featuring India, Australia, Malawi and the Harambee Starlets will be played on April 11 and 15, 2026 at Nyayo National Stadium, bringing top-level international women’s football to local fans.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya described the opportunity as a key moment for the country’s sports sector.
“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,” he said.
Mvurya welcomed the visiting teams, saying the event offers Kenya a chance to demonstrate its ability to host and organise international competitions.
“Kenya stands ready to receive you and to showcase not only our sporting excellence, but also the warmth, diversity, and hospitality that defines the Origin of Wonder,” he said.
The Ministry of Sports said the selection shows rising global trust in Kenya as a host nation, pointing to past success in staging major tournaments such as CHAN, the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series, the Magical Kenya Open, and the WRC Safari Rally.
According to the statement, the tournament will also serve as a stage for upcoming players, especially in women’s football, helping to grow the game and improve Kenya’s position on the global scene.
“The upcoming matches… will provide an important platform to showcase emerging talent, particularly in women’s football, and to further elevate Kenya’s standing in the global football landscape,” the statement read.
Kenya will also take part in the wider FIFA International Friendly Series alongside 48 national teams, a step expected to boost competition and strengthen the country’s football systems.
The Harambee Starlets will be in action on home ground, while the Harambee Stars are currently in Kigali for their men’s series matches.
Mvurya linked the event to wider efforts to improve sports in the country, saying investments in facilities, talent growth, and better management are shaping the future of the sector.
He said the tournament will act as a test run ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Kenya will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania.
“I therefore call upon all Kenyans to rally behind our national teams… Let us fill Nyayo National Stadium and show the world the true spirit of Kenya,” he urged.
