By Eddah Waithaka
The Nairobi-based side strengthens its ranks as it targets a top-three finish in the Kenya Premier League.
Kayole Starlets have snapped up three players from the Safaricom Chapa Dimba All-Stars team as they intensify their squad for the second leg of the Kenya Premier League season.
The trio goalkeeper Sonia Wambui, striker Calta Nasambu, and midfielder Naomi Nanjala have already joined the Nairobi-based side and trained with their new teammates at Calvary Sports Grounds.
All three previously featured for Barcelona Ladies SC from Laikipia, a club currently competing in the National Super League (NSL). They also formed part of the Safaricom Chapa Dimba All-Stars squad that traveled to Huesca, Spain, in September last year for a bootcamp sponsored by Safaricom.
The trio represented the Central Region at the national finals in Kisumu during Season Four of the tournament.
‘Chapa Dimba Brought Me Here’
Naomi Nanjala, who joins Kayole Starlets as a midfielder, described the move as the fulfillment of a long-held ambition.”I am excited to join Kayole Starlets,” Nanjala said.
“It has always been my ambition to play in the Kenya Premier League after competing in the National Super League. Joining mid-season gives me an opportunity to contribute to the team’s success in the remaining matches.”
She credited the grassroots tournament for launching her career. “Safaricom Chapa Dimba has played a significant role in my football journey. It is through this platform that I am here today, playing for Kayole Starlets.”
Goalkeeper Sonia Wambui echoed those sentiments, describing the tournament as a transformative force for young Kenyan talents.”Honestly, Chapa Dimba goes beyond a normal football tournament, it means a lot to young talents in this country,” Wambui said.
“I want to thank Kayole Starlets for believing in me, and I promise to give my best. It has always been my dream to play in the Premier League and showcase my talent not just locally, but globally. This is a great platform and opportunity for me.”
The new signings join Eunice Bobi Nabwoba and Praxedes Shivikhwa, who also came through the Chapa Dimba pathway.
Both featured for Wiyeta Girls in Season Four of the tournament, representing the Rift Valley Region at the national finals. Before joining Kayole Starlets, Nabwoba played for Amus College in Uganda.
Grassroots Tournament Keeps Producing Talent
Safaricom Chapa Dimba continues to serve as a vital pipeline for Kenyan football. More than 30 players from the most recent season have joined clubs competing in both the National Super League and the Kenya Premier League.
Notable players from the latest crop include Emily Moranga (Kenya Police), Duncan Omala (Nairobi United), Derick Okech (Shabana FC), Austine Odongo (Shabana FC), Stanley Waswa (Ulinzi Stars), Hamis Nyale (Ulinzi Stars), Bryton Otieno (Gor Mahia), Brian Aroko (Tusker Youth), Neddy Kithinji (3K FC), Lorrine Illavonga (Ulinzi Starlets), Mercy Akoth (Vihiga Queens), Swaumu Masungo (Kibera Soccer Women), and Marion Serenge (St. Noa — Uganda).
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Since its inception, the tournament has produced a string of high-profile talents, including Atem Kato (Penn State Nittany Lions), Jentrix Shikangwa (Simba Queens), Brian Enock Wanyama (Tatung FC — Taiwan), Benson Omala (Nairobi United), David Majak (Kariobangi Sharks), Jane Hato (Masters University), Judith Osimbo (Ulinzi Starlets), and Cynthia Livondo.
Coach Backs New Signings to Deliver
Kayole Starlets coach Joshua Sakwa expressed confidence that the new arrivals will strengthen his squad as the team pushes for a strong finish.
“I believe tournaments like Safaricom Chapa Dimba offer invaluable lessons when it comes to supporting, nurturing, and showcasing grassroots talent,” Sakwa said during a training session at Calvary Sports Grounds.
“The tournament plays a crucial role in spotting, developing, and showcasing young players.”He noted that his squad now includes around five players who came through the Chapa Dimba system.
“They are quality players, and we are confident they will help us push for a strong finish this season.”
Kayole Starlets currently sit in seventh position in the Kenya Premier League standings but have set their sights on breaking into the top three before the season concludes.
Safaricom Chapa Dimba is a national grassroots football tournament targeting Kenyan youth aged 16 to 20. The competition focuses on showcasing talent, transforming lives, and creating clear pathways for professional growth.
