Safaricom Chapa Dimba graduates propel Harambee Starlets toward WAFCON qualification
Reading Time: 3min | Thu. 28.09.23. | 11:03
Four Safaricom Chapa Dimba graduates were part of the Starlets team that beat Cameroon recently, a testament that the tournament is nurturing Kenyan football stars from grassroots to glory
In the world of sports, dreams are often woven from humble beginnings. The story of the Harambee Starlets, the Kenya Women's National Football Team, is a testament to the power of grassroots development and the dedication of young talents. With a recent victory against Cameroon, they have advanced to the final round of qualifiers for the Women's Africa Cup of Nations, where they will face Botswana. At the heart of this success story are four remarkable players: Jentrix Shikangwa, Mercy Airo, and Caroline Rufa.
These four footballing talents have not only risen to prominence on the national and international stages but have also become symbols of hope for aspiring young athletes in Kenya. Their journey began at the Safaricom Chapa Dimba grassroots tournament, where they honed their skills and forged their paths to stardom.
The Safaricom Chapa Dimba tournament, founded with the vision of nurturing young football talents in Kenya, has played a pivotal role in shaping the nation's soccer landscape. Jentrix Shikangwa, Mercy Airo, Caroline Rufa and Violet Nanjala are living proof of the tournament's profound impact.
Jentrix Shikangwa
Jentrix Shikangwa, one of Kenya's brightest footballing prospects, showcased her exceptional skills while playing for Shinyalu Academy during the Chapa Dimba tournament. Her journey from those grassroots pitches to becoming a formidable force in international women's football is a testament to her talent and dedication. Today, she proudly represents Beijing Jingtan FC in China, where she continues to shine on the global stage.
Mercy Airo
Mercy Airo's footballing journey began with Kitale Queens at the Chapa Dimba tournament. Her prowess on the field caught the eye of many, and she has since become a household name in Kenyan football. Currently plying her trade with Ulinzi Starlets in Kenya, Mercy Airo is not only a key player for the national team but also a role model for aspiring young girls who aspire to follow in her footsteps.
Caroline Rufa
Caroline Rufa's story is equally inspiring. She initially showcased her skills with Plateau Queens during the Safaricom Chapa Dimba tournament. Her journey has taken her across borders to Tanzania, where she now represents Simba Queens. Caroline's determination and talent have made her a valuable asset not only for her club but also for the Kenyan national team.
Violet Nanjala
Violet Nanjala's footballing odyssey began on the very pitches of Safaricom Chapa Dimba, where she showcased her prowess with Lugari Progressive. Her outstanding performances caught the attention of scouts and she joined Kenya Women's Premier League side Trans Nzoia Falcons which ignited her path towards professional football.
Today, Violet Nanjala proudly represents AMLFF LAAYOUNE in Morocco, a testament to her hard work and dedication. Her journey to the Moroccan league signifies not only her individual achievement but also her contribution to raising the profile of Kenyan football on the global stage.
The Safaricom Chapa Dimba Legacy
The success of Jentrix Shikangwa, Mercy Airo, Caroline Rufa and Violet Nanjala serves as a shining example of the impact of grassroots development programs like Safaricom Chapa Dimba. These tournaments provide young talents with a platform to showcase their abilities, gain exposure, and pursue their dreams of becoming professional footballers.
Moreover, their achievements underline the importance of investing in women's football in Kenya. As the Harambee Starlets aim for glory in the Women's Africa Cup of Nations, they inspire a new generation of female athletes to aim for the stars.
The journey of Jentrix Shikangwa, Mercy Airo, Caroline Rufa and Violet Nanjala from the Safaricom Chapa Dimba tournament to the international football arena is a testament to the transformative power of grassroots development. These talented young women have not only made a name for themselves but are also paving the way for the future of Kenyan women's football. As they gear up to face Botswana in the final round of qualifiers, their remarkable stories remind us that dreams are born on the grassroots pitches of Kenya and can soar to unimaginable heights.
