This archive report was first published on 21 June 2021.
On June 21, 2021, the Joylove FC women's team made a triumphant return to the top tier of Kenyan football by defeating Gikambura Starlets 1-0 in the Central Regional League opener at Gikambura Stadium, Kikuyu.
The winning goal was scored by Halima Melisa in the 25th minute, courtesy of a well-placed corner kick.
According to the team's coach, Beryn Migalusha, the win was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players, particularly Sharon Khasandi, who was instrumental in the team's victory.
'I would like to thank my players, especially Sharon Khasandi, for their excellent performance,' Migalusha said.
The Central Regional League is a new initiative by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to promote women's football in the country. The league is divided into two groups, A and B, with 12 teams in each group.
FKF's goal is to provide opportunities for young female players to develop their skills and potentially represent the national team.
'Our aim is to give young female players a platform to showcase their talents and potentially represent the national team in different age categories,' said Doreen Nabwire, the FKF women's football coordinator.
During the opening ceremony, Nabwire and Davis Chege, the chairman of the Central Region, handed out a ball to each of the 21 teams participating in the league, which has been divided into two groups.
'We hope to see some of you selected to play for the national team in different age categories,' Chege said.
