NAIROBI, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Kenya risks missing out of the regional Council of East and Central Africa Football Association (CECAFA) women's football tournament because of financial constraints.
Football Kenya Federation (FKF) president Nick Mwendwa, said on Saturday that Kenya is in the red and unless it gets a financial boost from the government, the team will be forced to pull out of the regional tournament, which brings together eight countries.
"We are drained financially. However, the regional tournament is important for the development of women's football in the country. If by Tuesday we have no funds, then we will pull out of the tournament," said Mwendwa.
"The team has done well. They beat World Cup participants Ghana home and away to make a date with Zambia in the fourth round of the Africa Olympic qualifiers tournament. Our request for funds has not received any response from the government," said Mwendwa.
Assistant coach Jackline Juma believes Kenya can overcome its challenges to win the tournament.
Kenya will take on Uganda, Ethiopia, and Djibouti in Pool B. Teams in Pool A consist of hosts Tanzania, Zanzibar, Burundi and South Sudan.
"We are ready for the challenge, though our group is a tough one. I think we will give it to our best. We have gained more experience from tournaments like Africa women Cup of Nations compared to Uganda and Djibouti," she said. "But each tournament is different and we will be on the watch not to underrate any opponent."
The tournament will be held two days after Harambee Starlets, Kenya women's national football team, play second leg Olympic qualifier against Zambia.
Starlets will open their campaign against Ethiopia on Nov. 15. Kenya beat Ethiopia 3-2 in September in Machakos in an international friendly.
