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Kakamega Starlets on the Brink: Financial Crisis Threatens Club’s Promotion Dreams

Kakamega Starlets, a women’s football team currently leading the league table despite two consecutive draws, is grappling with severe financial challenges.

The club's survival hangs in the balance as players endure dire conditions at camp, including a lack of food, allowances, and transport for away matches.

The absence of motivation, proper meals, and basic support has led several players to skip training, weakening the team’s overall performance.

The county government of Kakamega, led by Governor Fernandes Barasa, had previously pledged to support clubs in the Premier League, National Super League, and Division One.

However, according to the club, many of these promises remain unfulfilled.

“They promised us ambulance services for home games, transport for away matches, training equipment such as balls and boots, and, most importantly, financial facilitation,” a club official said.

With an away match in Naivasha scheduled for Saturday, the team is now counting on Governor Barasa’s intervention to facilitate travel.

Failure to honor this fixture could result in a walkover, costing the club six crucial points and jeopardizing its chances of promotion to the Kenya Women’s Premier League (KWPL).

The club has been relying on contributions from supporters via WhatsApp, but these efforts have fallen short in recent weeks.

Hon. Toto Shimanyula, a prominent supporter and vital financial backer, has been notably absent in the last three matches, possibly due to the costs associated with Football Kenya Federation (FKF) campaigns.

“The financial strain is overwhelming. We’re struggling to feed players, treat injuries, pay allowances, cover rent, and fund transport,” the official stated.

He warned that if Kakamega, a county renowned for its talent, does not step up, there might not be a women’s club in the Premier League next season.

Despite these challenges, the club’s management remains optimistic, stating that the team has the potential to join the KWPL next season if adequately supported.

“Any contribution, no matter how small, will help keep us moving as we wait for the county’s promises. This club cannot afford to fall; coming back from such a setback would be nearly impossible," the source added.

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