Kayole Starlets have strengthened their squad for the second leg of the Kenya Premier League by signing three talented players from the Safaricom Chapa Dimba All-Stars, underlining how grassroots football programs in Kenya are shaping the careers of the nation’s young athletes.
The newly recruited trio—Sonia Wambui (goalkeeper), Calta Nasambu (striker), and Naomi Nanjala (position)—previously played for Barcelona Ladies SC in Laikipia, a team competing in the National Super League (NSL). Their journey through Safaricom Chapa Dimba has provided both national and international exposure, including participation in a bootcamp in Huesca, Spain, last September.
They also represented the Central Region at the Season Four Chapa Dimba national finals in Kisumu, showcasing their readiness to compete at higher levels.
“I am excited to join Kayole Starlets. Playing in the Kenya Premier League has always been my goal. Safaricom Chapa Dimba has been instrumental in my development, giving me the platform to transition from grassroots football to the professional level,” said Naomi Wanjala.
Joining them are Eunice ‘Bobi’ Nabwoba and Praxedes Shivikhwa, who also progressed from Chapa Dimba and previously represented Wiyeta Girls in Season Four. Nabwoba also gained experience at Amus College in Uganda, emphasizing the regional and professional pathways created by the tournament.
Kayole Starlets coach Joshua Sakwa, speaking during training at Calvary Sports Grounds, Nairobi, highlighted the role of grassroots tournaments in career development.
“Tournaments like Safaricom Chapa Dimba are essential for nurturing talent and preparing players for professional football. Currently, five players in our squad are alumni of Chapa Dimba. Their technical skills, discipline, and experience will help us aim for a top finish this season,” he said.
Safaricom Chapa Dimba has produced over 30 players who have advanced to clubs in both the National Super League and Kenya Premier League, including Emily Morang’a (Kenya Police), Duncan Omala (Nairobi United), Derick Okech (Shabana FC), Austine Odongo (Shabana FC), Stanley Waswa (Ulinzi Stars), Bryton Otieno (Gor Mahia), Brian Aroko (Tusker Youth), Lorrine Illavonga (Ulinzi Starlets), Mercy Akoth (Vihiga Queens), Swaumu Masungo (Kibera Soccer Women), and Marion Serenge (St. Noa – Uganda).
Previous alumni have also built international careers, such as Atem Kato (Penn State Nittany Lions), Jentrix Shikangwa (Simba Queens), Brain Enock Wanyama (Tatung FC, Taiwan), Benson Omala (Nairobi United), David Majak (Kariobangi Sharks), Jane Hato (Master’s University), Judith Osimbo (Ulinzi Starlets), and Cynthia Livondo.
Currently ranked seventh, Kayole Starlets aim to leverage this strengthened squad to finish in the top three in the Kenya Premier League, demonstrating that grassroots programs like Safaricom Chapa Dimba are vital in providing structured pathways from local football to professional and international opportunities.
Safaricom Chapa Dimba, targeting youth aged 16–20, continues to create opportunities for talent discovery, career development, and professional growth in football, shaping the next generation of Kenyan stars.
