The Confederation of African Football has officially confirmed that the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations will no longer take place in March as initially scheduled, ending days of speculation that had surrounded the tournament’s fate.

In a statement published on its official platforms, CAF announced that the competition has been rescheduled to run from 25 July to 16 August 2026, while Morocco will remain the host nation. The tournament had originally been set for 17 March to 3 April 2026 after Morocco was awarded hosting rights in October 2024.

CAF explained that the decision followed consultations with FIFA and other stakeholders, with the continental body opting to move the dates in order to ensure the smooth organisation and overall success of the competition. The governing body cited unforeseen circumstances as part of the factors behind the adjustment.

The confirmation brings clarity to a situation that had created uncertainty among participating nations in recent weeks, particularly as preparations for the tournament had already entered their final phase.

For Kenya’s Harambee Starlets, the announcement significantly reshapes their preparation timeline. The team had been in Ivory Coast for friendly matches as part of their build-up and were planning to conclude their final training camp in Miramas, France, before travelling to Morocco for the tournament.

Starlets had endured a difficult tour in West Africa, falling 2–0 to Benin before losing 1–0 to Ivory Coast, The postponement now provides the Starlets with additional months to refine their squad, build cohesion and address tactical gaps before returning to the continental stage.