This archive report was first published on 5 August 2020.
Kitawa Kadoka, a 22-year-old footballer from Gitothua village in Kiambu County, has achieved the unthinkable – transforming her life from a troubled past to becoming a star player for Gitothua Starlets.
On June 27, 2020, Kadoka was spotted during a training session at Kivumbi grounds in Kiambu County, showcasing her skills as a defender for Gitothua Starlets.
However, Kadoka's journey to stardom was not an easy one. At a young age, she was introduced to drugs, which led to a downward spiral in her life. She shared her chilling experience, stating that peer pressure and poverty influenced her decision to indulge in drugs.
Despite the odds against her, Kadoka persevered and found solace in football. She joined Gitothua Starlets, a team established in early 2018 as a rehab program for girls struggling with drug abuse.
Today, Gitothua Starlets has evolved into a source of happiness for many, with over 30 girls who can play football. Kadoka credits the team for helping her turn her life around and hopes to play for Harambee Starlets in the future.
Her determination and hard work have not gone unnoticed, with Gitothua Starlets head coach John Baraka describing her as a 'determined footballer and role model to the team.'
