Kisped Queens CEO Leakey Ochieng is elated after two of his players, Benedete Oluoch (center-back defender) and Lavender Obong’o (goalkeeper), earned a call-up to the national team. The duo has been named in coach Beldine Odemba’s 36-player provisional squad for the upcoming two-legged 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers against Tunisia.
Speaking to The Kenyan Tabloid on Thursday, Ochieng expressed pride in the achievement, noting that the two have consistently impressed in the FKF Women’s Premier League (FKFWPL) and were both featured in the Team of the Week in early January.
“They deserve it. They have been putting in great performances during our league matches, and their selection for the FKFWPL Team of the Week shows their quality,” said Ochieng.
The Kisped Queens boss highlighted that since the club’s inception three years ago, five players have earned national team call-ups, with two members of the technical bench also involved in different national team categories.
“As CEO, I am always proud of the girls. Since we started, five of our players have received national team call-ups, along with two of our technical bench members. Our main objective has been to create a safe space and visibility for players, and it is paying off,” Ochieng added.
Head Coach Minjis Applauds Players’ Hard Work
Kisped Queens head coach Daniel Minjis also congratulated Obong’o and Oluoch, stating that their dedication and talent made them deserving of the national team opportunity.
“First of all, congratulations to my goalkeeper Lavender Obong’o and center-back Benedete Oluoch. They truly deserve this call-up. The journey hasn’t been easy for them, but they have showcased their abilities both in training and in matches, pushing themselves beyond expectations,” Minjis said.
Minjis emphasized that Kisped Queens has a history of producing national team players, mentioning previous call-ups for Desma Nyawade (senior team), Charlotte (U18), and Molly Awuor (U18).
“We are proud that Kisped Queens continues to be recognized. Previously, we had Desma Nyawade in the senior national team, Charlotte in the U18, and Molly Awuor also in the U18. This proves we are moving in the right direction,” he noted.
Despite losing two key players, Minjis remains confident in the depth of his squad, mentioning Christine Kadima and Annet Sakwa as players who could step up in their absence.
“Losing key players shakes up the starting lineup, but as Kisped Queens, we are a big family. We have many talented players ready to step in. Christine Kadima is back, and she, along with Annet Sakwa, played a crucial role in pushing us to the National Super League and playoffs,” Minjis explained.
The head coach also extended his gratitude to the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and scouts for recognizing Kisped Queens’ talent.
“I thank the federation and the scouts for recognizing our players. We will continue to produce top talent for the national team,” he concluded.
With Oluoch and Obong’o joining the national squad, Kisped Queens continue to solidify their reputation as a breeding ground for future Harambee Starlets.
