Safaricom Chapa Dimba Alumni Strengthen Kayole Starlets Squad

Kayole Starlets have reinforced their squad for the second leg of the Kenya Premier League by signing three standout players from the Safaricom Chapa Dimba All-Stars, highlighting the tournament’s role as a crucial pipeline for professional football talent and enhancing league competitiveness.

The new recruits—Sonia Wambui (goalkeeper), Calta Nasambu (striker), and Naomi Nanjala (position)—bring experience from Barcelona Ladies SC in Laikipia, currently competing in the National Super League (NSL), and have already joined the team to prepare for the upcoming fixtures.

The trio previously represented the Safaricom Chapa Dimba All-Stars in an international bootcamp in Huesca, Spain, last September, gaining advanced training and exposure to high-level football. They also featured for Barcelona Ladies SC during Season Four of Chapa Dimba, representing the Central Region at the national finals in Kisumu, further solidifying their competitive experience.

“I am thrilled to join Kayole Starlets. Playing in the Kenya Premier League has always been my goal. This mid-season move gives me the chance to contribute to the team’s success. Safaricom Chapa Dimba has played a vital role in my football journey, and it is through this platform that I have reached this stage,” said Naomi Wanjala.

The three join fellow Chapa Dimba alumni Eunice ‘Bobi’ Nabwoba and Praxedes Shivikhwa, who also progressed from grassroots tournaments to the Premier League. Nabwoba previously played for Amus College in Uganda before joining Kayole Starlets.

“Chapa Dimba goes beyond a football tournament. It is a platform that nurtures talent and prepares players for competitive leagues. I am grateful to Kayole Starlets for the opportunity and will give my all to make an impact in the league,” said Sonia Wambui.

Safaricom Chapa Dimba continues to feed professional clubs in both the National Super League and Kenya Premier League, with more than 30 players from the most recent season already signed. 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), and others.

Other alumni who have successfully transitioned to professional and international football 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 during a training session at Calvary Sports Grounds, Kayole Starlets coach Joshua Sakwa praised the impact of Chapa Dimba in shaping league-ready players:

“Tournaments like Safaricom Chapa Dimba are invaluable in identifying, nurturing, and preparing players for professional football. Currently, five of our squad members are Chapa Dimba alumni. They bring skill, resilience, and ambition that strengthen our squad and increase our chances for a top-three finish this season,” he said.

Kayole Starlets are currently seventh in the league but are targeting a top-three finish, leveraging the talent pipeline provided by Safaricom Chapa Dimba.

Safaricom Chapa Dimba is a national grassroots football tournament for youth aged 16–20, aimed at talent development, professional pathways, and enhancing the competitiveness of football in Kenya, transforming grassroots players into league-ready professionals.