Esse Akida reveals why she took a year off as she returns to Kenyan football
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Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 14.10.25. | 18:47
The 32-year-old forward has been out of action since June 2024
Harambee Starlets striker Esse Akida has opened up on the reason behind her one-year absence from competitive football as she makes a sensational return to the Kenyan league.
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The 32-year-old forward has been out of action since June 2024, when her contract with Greek giants PAOK Thessaloniki expired, a period that had many fans speculating about her future in the game.
Despite her repeated assurances that she was still active, doubts lingered as months passed without any sign of her on the pitch.
However, Akida has now put the speculation to rest after signing for Kibera Soccer Women FC in the FKF Women’s Premier League, officially marking her comeback to the game.
Speaking after her unveiling, the former Starlets captain revealed that she took the break to focus on a personal family matter.
“My dream has always been to play football until I can’t play anymore.
After a tough period juggling between the health of my old man and my career, I feel I’m in a good mental space to continue again,” Akida shared on her Instagram page, explaining that her father’s illness made it difficult to continue playing.
The forward, who is set to reunite with her former coach George Robert Okallo, said returning to the Kenyan top flight feels special.
“I’m happy to join Kibera Soccer Women FC and to be back playing in the Kenyan Women’s Premier League. This is more special because I’m reuniting with Coach Okallo, someone who truly understands my game,” she added.
Born in Kilifi, Akida began her football journey with Moving The Goalposts (MTG) before turning out for Spedag and later Thika Queens.
Her impressive displays at Thika Queens earned her a move to Israel’s Ramat HaSharon, followed by stints with Besiktas JK in Turkey and PAOK in Greece between 2018 and 2024.
At PAOK, Akida enjoyed remarkable success, helping the club win two league titles and clinching the Golden Boot in her debut season (2022–23) after scoring 38 goals in 64 appearances.
Her return to the local scene is expected to bring valuable experience and inspiration to Kibera Soccer Women FC and the broader Kenyan women’s game.
