Kenya has officially secured the rights to host the 2026 FIFA Women’s Series, marking a historic milestone as the country prepares to stage its first-ever FIFA global football event on home soil.
The announcement was made by Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, who described the selection as a major endorsement of Kenya’s growing reputation as a reliable host for international sporting events.
Historic Moment for Kenyan Football
The matches are scheduled to take place from April 11 to April 15 at the iconic Nyayo National Stadium, giving Kenyan fans a rare opportunity to witness top-level FIFA-organized women’s football live.
“This selection is a strong vote of confidence in Kenya’s proven hosting capability,” Mvurya stated, adding that the country has consistently demonstrated its ability to organize and deliver world-class sporting events.
Harambee Starlets on Home Soil
Kenya’s national women’s team, the Harambee Starlets, will headline the tournament as they compete on home turf.
The event is expected to boost the visibility of women’s football in the country while inspiring a new generation of players and fans.
International Participation
Kenya will host three other nations—India, Australia, and Malawi—bringing together diverse footballing cultures under one roof.
Mvurya extended a warm welcome to all participating teams, officials, and fans, emphasizing Kenya’s readiness to deliver a memorable tournament.
“On behalf of the Government of Kenya, I extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to the participating nations… and the global football community,” he said.
FIFA International Friendly Series
In addition to hosting duties, Kenya will also participate in the broader FIFA International Friendly Series, which will feature more than 40 countries worldwide.
Meanwhile, the men’s national team, the Harambee Stars, has already departed for Kigali, Rwanda, ahead of their matches scheduled from March 25 to March 31.
Proven Hosting Credentials
Kenya’s selection did not come by chance. The country has built a solid track record of hosting major international events, including:
- The HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series
- The WRC Safari Rally
- The Magical Kenya Open
- The African Nations Championship
These events have showcased Kenya’s organizational capacity and hospitality on the global stage.
Infrastructure Upgrades Underway
The government is also ramping up investments in sports infrastructure to meet international standards. Key projects include:
- The development of the Raila Odinga International Stadium
- Modernization of Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani
- Continued upgrades at Nyayo National Stadium
These improvements are aimed at ensuring Kenya is fully prepared for upcoming global tournaments.
Building Towards AFCON 2027
Hosting the FIFA Women’s Series is also a crucial step in Kenya’s preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations 2027, which the country will co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania.
The tournament, scheduled from June 19 to July 18, 2027, will be one of the biggest sporting events ever held in the region.
According to Mvurya, the FIFA Women’s Series will serve as a critical test run for infrastructure, logistics, and operational readiness.
“This tournament provides a critical opportunity to test our infrastructure, systems, and operational readiness as we build towards delivering a successful AFCON,” he noted.
A Turning Point for Kenyan Sports
The hosting rights represent more than just a football tournament—they signal Kenya’s growing influence in global sports.
With improved facilities, increased international exposure, and a renewed focus on women’s football, the FIFA Women’s Series 2026 could mark the beginning of a new era for Kenyan sports.
For fans, players, and stakeholders alike, April 2026 promises to be a defining moment—one that puts Kenya firmly on the global football map.