Safaricom Chapa Dimba Trio Brings Youthful Energy to Kayole Starlets

Kayole Starlets have strengthened their Kenya Premier League squad by signing three standout players from the Safaricom Chapa Dimba All-Stars, underlining the impact of grassroots football in developing talent for both national and international opportunities. The new recruits—Sonia Wambui (goalkeeper), Calta Nasambu (striker), and Naomi Nanjala (position)—bring a wealth of experience from Barcelona Ladies SC of Laikipia in the National Super League (NSL) and from their participation in international football exposure programs. The trio was part of the Safaricom Chapa Dimba All-Stars team that attended a bootcamp in Huesca, Spain, in September last year, gaining global insights into training, tactics, and performance. “This opportunity to play in the Kenya Premier League is a dream come true. Joining mid-season allows me to contribute to the team immediately, and I am grateful to Safaricom Chapa Dimba for giving me international exposure that prepared me for this stage,” said Naomi Wanjala. The players’ journey through Chapa Dimba also includes representing Barcelona Ladies SC during Season Four of the tournament, representing the Central Region at the national finals in Kisumu. Their pathway illustrates how grassroots football programs can create professional and international opportunities for Kenyan youth. Joining the trio are Eunice ‘Bobi’ Nabwoba and Praxedes Shivikhwa, who featured for Wiyeta Girls in Season Four, representing the Rift Valley Region at the national finals. Nabwoba also brings experience from Amus College in Uganda, enhancing the team’s competitive edge. “Chapa Dimba is more than a tournament; it is a platform that transforms lives by providing young players with skills, exposure, and pathways to professional and international football. I am excited to join Kayole Starlets and showcase what we have learned,” said Sonia Wambui. Safaricom Chapa Dimba continues to impact football development in Kenya, with over 30 alumni from the most recent season joining clubs in both the National Super League and Kenya Premier League. Notable players include 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. Other prominent alumni 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. Speaking at a Calvary Sports Grounds training session, Kayole Starlets coach Joshua Sakwa emphasized the value of grassroots programs in preparing players for international exposure: “Tournaments like Safaricom Chapa Dimba offer more than competitive matches; they equip players with tactical knowledge, international exposure, and professionalism. These experiences are invaluable for developing players who can perform in the Premier League and beyond,” he said. Currently in seventh position, Kayole Starlets aim to leverage their strengthened squad, infused with Chapa Dimba alumni, to challenge for a top-three finish in the league. Safaricom Chapa Dimba is a national grassroots football tournament targeting youth aged 16–20. Its mission is to discover talent, nurture skills, and provide pathways to professional and international football, transforming lives and creating opportunities for young Kenyan footballers.