Safaricom Chapa Dimba Trio Joins Kayole Starlets to Boost Premier League Campaign

Kayole Starlets have strengthened their squad for the second leg of the Kenya Premier League by recruiting three players from the Safaricom Chapa Dimba All-Stars, showcasing how the grassroots tournament opens doors to international exposure and professional growth for young footballers.

The new signings—Sonia Wambui (goalkeeper), Calta Nasambu (striker), and Naomi Nanjala (position)—bring valuable experience from Barcelona Ladies SC in Laikipia, which competes in the National Super League (NSL), and have already joined training sessions with the Starlets to prepare for upcoming matches.

The trio were part of the Safaricom Chapa Dimba All-Stars squad that traveled to Huesca, Spain, in September last year for a professional bootcamp, gaining exposure to advanced training techniques and international standards in football. They also represented the Central Region in Season Four of Chapa Dimba, competing at the national finals in Kisumu, further refining their competitive edge.

“I am thrilled to join Kayole Starlets. Playing in the Kenya Premier League has always been my goal, and this mid-season move gives me a chance to make a difference. Safaricom Chapa Dimba has been instrumental in my journey, providing exposure and opportunities that have brought me to this stage,” said Naomi Wanjala.

The trio joins fellow Chapa Dimba alumni Eunice ‘Bobi’ Nabwoba and Praxedes Shivikhwa, who also progressed from grassroots football to the Premier League. Before joining Kayole Starlets, Nabwoba played for Amus College in Uganda, demonstrating how the tournament builds international pathways for Kenyan players.

“Chapa Dimba is more than just a tournament; it is a launchpad for ambitious players seeking professional careers locally and abroad. I am grateful to Kayole Starlets for the opportunity and will give my best to honor the platform that brought me here,” said Sonia Wambui.

Safaricom Chapa Dimba continues to impact football talent nationwide. From the most recent season, over 30 players have joined professional clubs in the National Super League and Kenya Premier League, including 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.

Notable alumni since the tournament’s inception 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 at Calvary Sports Grounds in Nairobi, Kayole Starlets coach Joshua Sakwa highlighted the significance of international exposure through Chapa Dimba:

“Tournaments like Safaricom Chapa Dimba are vital in providing young players with the skills, experience, and confidence to perform at higher levels. With five alumni in our squad, we have quality players ready to compete and inspire others. Their international exposure sets them apart and will help us aim for a top-three finish this season,” he said.

Currently positioned seventh in the league, Kayole Starlets are targeting a top-three finish, leveraging the talent and international experience brought by Chapa Dimba alumni.

Safaricom Chapa Dimba is a national grassroots tournament for youth aged 16–20, designed to discover talent, provide international exposure, and create professional pathways, transforming grassroots players into league-ready stars with global opportunities.