Harambee Starlets have departed for a high-performance training camp in Miramas, France, after a dispute over unpaid allowances that briefly threatened to derail the team’s preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

The national women’s team had earlier on Wednesday staged a protest over delayed payments, with players expressing frustration and warning they would not travel until the matter was addressed. The standoff prompted urgent discussions involving government officials and the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), leading to a resolution later in the day.

The breakthrough came after the government cleared the players’ outstanding allowances and released the Sh10 million reward that President William Ruto had pledged to the team. Following confirmation that the funds had been disbursed, the squad proceeded with travel arrangements and boarded their flight to France as scheduled.

Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi assured the players that the government remained committed to supporting Kenya’s national teams, dismissing speculation that the situation reflected a wider crisis.

“The government is committed to supporting all sports. The issues related to the allowances are being processed and the money is being sent directly to the players’ individual accounts. The Starlets and the Junior Starlets can confirm they have received the payments,” said Mwangi.

He further explained that the presidential reward had already been processed, adding that its official presentation had been delayed due to scheduling changes following a State House breakfast meeting with AFC Leopards.

Mwangi also revealed that the government is working on an improved reward structure to motivate the team during the tournament, similar to the incentives offered to Harambee Stars during the African Nations Championship (CHAN), should the Starlets progress deep into the competition.

Team captain Mwanahalima Adam welcomed the intervention, saying the players were satisfied that the promises made to them had been fulfilled.

“Our leaders have come through for us. Everything has now been resolved, and our focus is on representing the country. They have done their part, and now it is our turn to do ours,” she said.

The France camp is expected to sharpen the team’s physical conditioning and tactical preparations before they head to Morocco for the continental showpiece. Kenya has been drawn in a challenging Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Senegal and Algeria, with the Starlets hoping to make a strong impression on Africa’s biggest women’s football stage.