Kenya to Host Historic 2026 FIFA Women’s Series Matches
By Njeri Irungu,
24 March 2026,
Nairobi, Kenya.
Kenya has been selected to host the 2026 FIFA Women’s Series matches, marking a historic first as the country welcomes a global football event under FIFA.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Salim Mvurya announced that the matches will take place on April 11 and 15, 2026, at Nyayo National Stadium. The tournament will feature participating nations including India, Australia, and Malawi.
Mvurya described the selection as a strong vote of confidence in Kenya’s ability to organize and deliver world-class sporting events. He noted that the country has consistently demonstrated its hosting capability through events such as the African Nations Championship (CHAN), the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series, the Magical Kenya Open, the Kip Keino Classic, and the WRC Safari Rally.
The Cabinet Secretary said the upcoming matches will provide a platform to showcase emerging talent in women’s football while elevating Kenya’s global standing in the sport. Kenya has also been selected among 48 nations to participate in the FIFA International Friendly Series, a move expected to boost competitiveness and provide international exposure for local teams.
Kenya’s women’s national team, the Harambee Starlets, will headline the tournament on home soil, carrying national hopes. Meanwhile, the men’s team, the Harambee Stars, has already departed for Kigali, Rwanda, to take part in the men’s series.
The government has called on Kenyans to turn out in large numbers to support the teams and showcase the country’s unity and passion for football.
Mvurya attributed the milestone to sustained government investment and reforms in the sports sector under the leadership of President William Ruto. He highlighted ongoing infrastructure upgrades, including the development of the Raila Odinga International Stadium at the Talanta Sports Complex, as well as renovations at Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums to meet FIFA standards.
He also pointed to expanded grassroots programmes, sports academies, and school competitions aimed at nurturing talent and creating pathways for athletes from the grassroots to elite levels.
The government is further strengthening partnerships with the private sector to unlock investment and position sports as a driver of economic growth. At the same time, legislative and policy reforms such as the Sports Bill 2026 and a new Stadium Management Framework are being implemented to enhance governance and accountability.
Hosting the FIFA Women’s Series is also seen as a key step in preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Kenya will co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania. According to Mvurya, the tournament will serve as a critical test of the country’s infrastructure and operational readiness.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to delivering a successful AFCON, noting that efforts are underway in collaboration with the National Treasury and National Assembly to address financial requirements.
The Cabinet Secretary also commended the Football Kenya Federation for ongoing reforms that have helped restore credibility and strengthen football development in the country.
He urged Kenyans to fill Nyayo National Stadium during the matches and demonstrate the country’s renowned hospitality as it hosts the international football community.