The success of the Harambee Stars has captured national attention in recent weeks, with celebrations and praise pouring in from all corners.
However, behind the noise, another story is unfolding one that raises uncomfortable questions about fairness and equality in sports.
The Harambee Starlets, who also carry the nation’s flag with pride, are once again being left in the shadows despite their own struggles and achievements.
ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has openly voiced his concerns, pointing out that while the men’s team enjoys the spotlight, the women’s team is being sidelined.
In a video statement shared online, he reminded Kenyans that unpaid allowances and broken promises have become a painful cycle for the women. Sifuna was clear that this is not a new problem.
Time and again, female athletes are stranded while politicians and officials scramble for photo opportunities whenever the men’s team is performing well.
He made reference to the Sports Cabinet Secretary, who months earlier had paraded with players and promised that seventy million shillings had been allocated to all national teams, including the Starlets.
According to Sifuna, nothing has come from that pledge. No money has reached the women’s team, leaving them frustrated and feeling ignored.
This statement has since gained traction among Kenyans online, many of whom now question why support for athletes seems to depend on gender.
The men are celebrated and rewarded, while the women are left waiting.
Sports analysts and commentators have also weighed in, warning that this neglect of female athletes is not only unjust but also highlights poor priorities in leadership.
They argue that progress in sports cannot be measured only by how men are treated while women are sidelined.
For them, the government’s repeated failure to meet its promises is proof that public relations takes precedence over actual commitment to athletes.
Sifuna went further in his criticism by accusing the administration of running the country on PR stunts.
He warned that every unfulfilled promise eats away at the dignity of athletes who dedicate their lives to representing the nation.
According to him, cheering for the Harambee Stars while turning a blind eye to the Starlets is hypocrisy that Kenyans should not tolerate.
His words have fueled debate, with pressure now mounting on the Ministry of Sports to provide answers and settle the unpaid allowances.
