Esse Akida Joins Kibera Soccer Women: A Powerful Return to Kenyan Football

Kenyan football fans are celebrating the return of Harambee Starlets striker Esse Akida, who has signed a nine-month deal with Kibera Soccer Women FC in the FKF Women Premier League. This move marks a significant milestone in Akida’s career, bringing experience, talent, and leadership back to local football.

Key Takeaways:

• Esse Akida signed for Kibera Soccer Women on a nine-month Bosman deal.
• She returns after a year-long break to focus on family and mental health.
• Akida brings international experience from Israel, Turkey, and Greece.
• The signing reunites her with Coach George Robert Okallo, a mentor from her youth.
• Her comeback is expected to boost Kibera Soccer Women’s ambitions and inspire young players.

Akida’s Journey Back Home

Esse Akida’s return to the Kenyan Women’s Premier League is more than just a transfer; it is a homecoming. After parting ways with Greek champions PAOK in mid-2024, Akida took a break from football to care for her ailing father and focus on her mental well-being. She expressed on social media her excitement to be “in a good mental space to continue again” and her dream to play football “until I can’t play anymore.”

Joining Kibera Soccer Women reconnects Akida to the competition where she first blossomed. The move also reunites her with Coach George Robert Okallo, who shaped her early football journey at the National Youth Talent Academy.

Profile and Impact

Aspect	Details
Age	32 Years
Previous Clubs	Spedag, KeMU Women, Hamat Hasharon (Israel), Besiktas (Turkey), PAOK FC (Greece)
International Caps	Key player for Harambee Starlets, Africa Women’s Cup of Nations participant
Goal Record	Scored 38 goals in 64 appearances for PAOK FC
Role at Kibera Women	Veteran striker and mentor, wearing jersey number 14

What This Means for Kibera Soccer Women

Kibera Soccer Women have quickly built a reputation for developing young talent from Nairobi’s informal settlements. Akida’s signing significantly strengthens their squad with international quality and invaluable experience. Her leadership is expected to inspire teammates and attract more attention to women’s football in Kenya.

Quote from Esse Akida:

“I’m excited about what this team is building and the ambition the club has. I believe we can achieve great things together. This is also a chance to inspire young girls who dream of playing football and making a career out of it.”

Local and National Reactions

Fans and sports analysts have praised Akida’s decision to return home. Many see her comeback as a boost not only for Kibera Soccer Women but also for Kenyan women’s football overall. Her international experience is invaluable in raising the league’s competitiveness and visibility.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Kenyan Women’s Football

Esse Akida’s return to Kibera Soccer Women symbolizes resilience and dedication—qualities that inspire both players and fans across Kenya. As she reembarks on her career at home, she brings renewed hope for the future of Kenyan women’s football. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of mental well-being in sports.

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