Kenya’s first ever woman to be appointed a head coach to a FKF Premier League club side Jackline Juma has said that she is ready to get down to work and achieve great targets following her appointment as the new FC Talanta head coach.
Juma, fondly refeed to as Jacky, made history as the first woman in Kenya to be appointed head coach in a men’s premier league team after her appointment to lead the FKF Premier league team in the upcoming 2024/2025 season due to kick off on August 24th, 2024.
“It’s an incredible honor and a proud moment not just for me, but for women in football across Kenya and Africa. This milestone is a testament to the progress we’ve made in promoting inclusivity in football. I’m excited to bring my experience and passion to FC Talanta and look forward to this new challenge,” Coach Jacky said in an interview.
Jackline encouraged other female coaches to take up coaching courses noting that gender should not be a barrier and her appointment to head a men’s team is testament in the capabilities that women hold in the developing world of football.
Alongside Harambee Starlets coach Beldine Odemba, the Talanta coach is the first woman in Kenya to graduate with a CAF A coaching license.
The former Gor Mahia Queens and Talanta Hela under 19 national team tactician said that she is elated with her new role in the mens top league as he praised Football Kenya Federation for giving an equal opportunity to both men and women to access knowledge.
“I have had an opportunity to coach teams from the junior levels to the seniors. My focus now will be on building a strong team culture, fostering discipline, and implementing tactical strategies that will bring out the best in the players. I’m eager to apply these experiences at FC Talanta and help the team achieve its goals,” Jacky said.
“This appointment is a clear message that gender should not be a barrier in football. My Employer FC Talanta, and FKF have demonstrated their commitment to inclusivity by creating opportunities for women in various roles. I hope this inspires more women to pursue careers in football, knowing that they will be supported and recognized for their talents,” she said.
Jackline said that she hopes her journey will show to the world that with the right support, women can achieve anything in football. She noted that FKF has laid a strong foundation, and after benefiting from that foundation, she is committed to mentoring young female coaches, ensuring they have the opportunities and support that she has received.
“To all the young girls out there, I want to say that your dreams are valid. With determination, hard work, and the right support, you can achieve anything. FKF has shown that they believe in us, and I’m here to show that we belong at every level of football. Keep pushing, keep believing, and the sky’s the limit.” She concluded.