Kayole Starlets have reinforced their squad for the second leg of the Kenya Premier League by signing three rising stars from the Safaricom Chapa Dimba All-Stars, illustrating how grassroots football programs provide young players with clear pathways to professional careers.
The new recruits—Sonia Wambui (goalkeeper), Calta Nasambu (striker), and Naomi Nanjala (position)—bring with them a combination of talent, experience, and mentorship received through Chapa Dimba, which has been instrumental in shaping their development. Previously, they played for Barcelona Ladies SC in Laikipia, a club competing in the National Super League (NSL), before progressing to Kenya’s top-tier league.
The trio also participated in the Safaricom Chapa Dimba All-Stars international bootcamp in Huesca, Spain, gaining advanced coaching, tactical knowledge, and exposure to high-level football, further preparing them for competitive play in Kenya. They were key members of the Central Region squad in Season Four of Chapa Dimba, representing Barcelona Ladies SC at the national finals in Kisumu.
“I am thrilled to join Kayole Starlets. Playing in the Kenya Premier League has been a dream, and joining mid-season allows me to contribute immediately. Safaricom Chapa Dimba has been pivotal in my journey, offering mentorship, exposure, and opportunities that have prepared me for this level,” said Naomi Wanjala.
The three join Eunice ‘Bobi’ Nabwoba and Praxedes Shivikhwa, who also progressed from Chapa Dimba, having represented Wiyeta Girls at the national finals, and bring additional experience, including Nabwoba’s stint at Amus College in Uganda.
“Chapa Dimba is more than a tournament; it is a mentorship platform that guides young players through career pathways, exposing them to both national and international opportunities. I am grateful to Kayole Starlets for trusting my abilities, and I will give my best to excel at the Premier League,” said Sonia Wambui.
Safaricom Chapa Dimba continues to nurture football talent nationwide. More than 30 players from the most recent season have joined clubs across 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), Marion Serenge (St. Noa – Uganda), among others.
Alumni from earlier seasons who have advanced to professional or international careers include 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.
During a training session at Calvary Sports Grounds in Nairobi, Kayole Starlets coach Joshua Sakwa praised the role of Chapa Dimba in shaping professional football careers:
“Tournaments like Safaricom Chapa Dimba provide mentorship, development, and exposure that are essential for building successful football careers. With five Chapa Dimba alumni in our squad, we have talented players ready to make an impact and strengthen our push for a strong league finish,” he said.
Currently in seventh position, Kayole Starlets aim to capitalize on their strengthened squad to challenge for the top three in the Kenya Premier League, highlighting the impact of grassroots tournaments in creating career pathways for young players.
Safaricom Chapa Dimba targets youth aged 16–20, offering a platform to discover talent, nurture skills, and create opportunities for professional growth, ultimately shaping the next generation of Kenyan football stars.