Kenya’s U-17 boys’ football team is ready to take on Africa as head coach Salim Babu revealed a 77-player provisional squad ahead of the AFCON U-17 CECAFA qualifiers in Kampala, Uganda, set to begin on December 14, 2024.
The squad, a mix of local and international talents, reflects Coach Babu’s ambitious strategy to secure a spot in next year’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) U-17 tournament. Among the notable names are foreign-based players such as Lukande Mwale (Sad Huesca, Spain), Joshua Gegaga Wahome (Trinity School, UK), and Roy Mutimba (Spire Academy, USA), who join promising local stars from across Kenyan schools and academies.
A Bold Vision for Kenyan Youth Football
Speaking during the squad announcement, Coach Babu emphasized his focus on nurturing the nation’s future stars.
“We have a pool of young, talented players with immense potential,” said Babu. “Our goal is to mold this group into a formidable team that can compete at the highest level in Africa and beyond.”
Babu, who will be assisted by Bidco United coach Anthony Akhulia, is no stranger to success, having led Kenya’s U-20 team to its first-ever AFCON qualification earlier this year.
“The objective is clear: qualify for AFCON U-17 and lay the foundation for the future of Kenyan football,” Babu added.
Tough Competition Awaits in Kampala
Kenya will battle regional heavyweights Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, Sudan, Ethiopia, and Somalia in the CECAFA qualifiers. With a ticket to the continental tournament on the line, the competition is expected to be fierce.
“We know the challenge ahead, but this team has the energy, skill, and determination to rise above it,” Babu remarked.
The team will begin rigorous training on December 6 in preparation for their departure to Kampala on December 10.
A Deep Pool of Talent
The squad boasts depth across all positions, with players drawn from top secondary schools and grassroots academies nationwide. The inclusion of international players aims to bolster the squad’s competitiveness.
Key players include:
- Goalkeepers: Theo Mwangi (Ongata Senior) and Maurice Agutu (St. Joseph Kitale).
- Defenders: Cosmos Azunga (Ongata Senior) and Ahmed Siraji (Githurai All Stars).
- Midfielders: Ramadhan Hamisi (Tononoka) and Ferdinand Mukamani (ABN Sports, Mali).
- Forwards: Hassan Messi Wairimu (Kayole Twilight) and Timothy Okumu (Highway Secondary School).
Eyes on the Prize
Kenya’s recent successes at the youth level, including a runner-up finish at the CECAFA U-18 tournament, have raised expectations. The AFCON U-17 qualifiers present an opportunity for the next generation of Kenyan footballers to shine on the continental stage.
“The focus is not just on qualifying but also on building a strong foundation for the future,” said Babu. “This is about more than football; it’s about national pride and showcasing Kenya’s talent to the world.”
The final squad will be trimmed ahead of the tournament, with fans eagerly awaiting Kenya’s performance in Kampala. Can this young team continue Kenya’s upward trajectory in African football? Time will tell.
