Kenya will host a round of the FIFA Women’s Series 2026 in Nairobi, marking a major step in the country’s growing presence in international football.
Kenya has been selected by FIFA to host part of the Women’s Series 2026, with matches set to be played at Nyayo National Stadium from 11 April to 15 April.
The development was confirmed by Hussein Mohammed, who said the tournament presents an opportunity to elevate the country’s football standards and organisational capacity.
He said hosting the matches will give the national women’s team valuable exposure while strengthening Kenya’s ability to deliver international competitions.
Harambee Starlets set for key test matches
The four-nation tournament will feature Kenya’s Harambee Starlets alongside India, Australia and Malawi.
Australia will face Malawi in the opening match, before Kenya take on India later the same day. Winners from the two fixtures will progress to the final, while the losing sides will meet in a third-place playoff scheduled for 15 April.
The Nairobi leg is part of a broader expansion of the women’s competition, with FIFA adding Kenya as one of 12 host nations for the intercontinental series.
Government welcomes global recognition
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya welcomed the announcement, saying it reflects Kenya progress in sports development and international positioning.
He said the opportunity to host such a tournament demonstrates the country’s readiness to stage global events and strengthens its presence on the world stage.
The women’s programme will also take place in Brazil, Côte d’Ivoire and Thailand, as part of efforts to increase competitive opportunities for national teams beyond their regions.
FIFA revises tournament schedule
FIFA said the inclusion of Kenya follows a revision of the 2026 Series schedule, which also affected the men’s competition after the withdrawal of Kuwait and Oman due to what it described as extraordinary circumstances.
The updated tournament will feature 50 national teams competing in 13 groups across 12 countries, with a total of 53 matches.
Women’s fixtures will run from 9 April to 18 April, while men’s matches are scheduled between 25 March and 31 March.
FIFA said the series aims to bring together teams of varying competitive levels to promote inclusive and sustainable global football development.
