Harambee Starlets’ head coach Beldine Odemba believes Valarie Nekesa’s transfer to Spanish Liga F side CD Tenerife Femenino highlights the strength of the country’s school football system in nurturing elite talent.
The 18-year-old forward, unveiled by the Spanish top-flight club on July 11, became only the third Kenyan woman to sign for a club in Spain after Cynthia Shilwatso and Vivian Corazon Aquino.
Her move comes as the Starlets continue their training camp in Miramas, France, ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco. Odemba said Nekesa’s rise from school football to Europe’s top tier should inspire greater investment in grassroots development.
“Nekesa’s move to a European club is a testament to the importance of school football programmes. That is where we identify and nurture talent,” said Odemba.
“The government should invest more in school competitions and women’s football at every level so that we continue producing players capable of making the step to professional football abroad.”
Born in Bungoma County and raised in Murang’a, Nekesa first rose to prominence at Madira Girls High School before starring for the Junior Starlets.
She played a key role in Kenya’s historic qualification for the FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup, and her performances earned her a promotion to the senior national team. The teenager described the transfer as the fulfilment of a lifelong ambition.
“I have dreamed of playing in Europe since I was young, and today that dream has come true. I thank God for making it possible and everyone who has supported me throughout my journey, especially my coaches,” she said.
Nekesa also credited Football Kenya Federation (FKF) head of technical education and school football programmes, Alex Alumirah, for helping to facilitate the move. Although she is still settling into life in Spain, she believes CD Tenerife offers the ideal platform for her continued growth.
“I don’t know much about CD Tenerife yet, but I believe it is the right environment for me to grow and showcase my ability. I want to prepare myself mentally, physically and psychologically for the challenge ahead,” she said. She urged aspiring footballers to remain patient and disciplined in pursuing their dreams.
“Talent alone is not enough. Success comes from combining talent with hard work, discipline and faith in God. I hope my journey inspires others to believe that their dreams are achievable.”
Nekesa’s transfer comes as Kenya finalises preparations for WAFCON, where the Starlets have been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Senegal and Algeria. Kenyans will begin their campaign against Morocco on July 26 before facing Senegal on July 30 and Algeria on August 3.
The team’s training camp in Miramas was made possible through cooperation agreements between the FKF, Olympique de Marseille and the City of Miramas, giving the Starlets access to elite facilities as they prepare for the continental showpiece.
