Kenya international forward Esse Akida has made a stirring comeback to competitive football, signing a nine-month deal with FKF Women's Premier League side Kibera Soccer Women FC.
The move symbolises both personal triumph and renewed ambition for women’s football in Kenya. After more than a year away from the pitch, Akida’s return is not just about rediscovering her rhythm, but about resilience, legacy, and leadership.
The 32-year-old, who last featured for Greek champions AC PAOK, stepped away from football in mid-2024 to care for her ailing father. The decision, though difficult, reflected her deep values and commitment beyond the game. “My dream has always been to play football until I cannot play no more,” Akida said.
She expressed the emotional weight behind her decision to resume playing. “After a tough period juggling between the health of my old man and my career, I feel I am in a good mental space to continue again.”
Her arrival at Kibera Soccer Women rekindles an old football connection with coach George Robert Okallo, the same mentor who guided her during her formative years at the National Youth Talent Academy.
That reunion, she admits, adds sentimental value to her fresh start. “This is more special because I am reuniting with coach Okallo, someone who has played a big role in my football journey and truly understands my game,” Akida said.
She added that she hopes to channel her experience to inspire the team’s younger players. For coach Okallo, Akida’s return could not have come at a better time.“Esse brings a wealth of experience, not just technically but mentally,” he said.
“She’s a leader who understands what it means to fight through adversity, and that’s the spirit we want in this team,” he went on. The decorated player who has represented Kenya across multiple continents, from Israel’s Hamat Hasharon to Turkey’s Besiktas and Greece’s PAOK.
Akida now returns home to fuel the ambitions of a club on the rise and a national team rebuilding for upcoming international fixtures. Her presence in the FKF Women's Premier League is expected to inject belief into a new generation of players who grew up watching her shine on the big stage.
“I believe we can achieve great things together,” she affirmed. “This is also a chance to inspire young girls who dream of playing football and making a career out of it.”
As Kibera Soccer Women chase consistency in the league and the Harambee Starlets look ahead to continental qualifiers, Akida’s story stands as a reminder that comebacks are not just about returning to the game but about reigniting purpose. Kibera Soccer Women will next face Nakuru City Queens in Nairobi at a later date, where probably all eyes will be on Akida as she begins her second chapter in Kenyan football.
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