Jackline Juma will become the first ever female coach to lead a team out in the Kenyan Premier League this weekend, when her team, FC Talanta, plays Sofapaka FC in the first game of the season.
Juma, a licensed CAF A coaching badge holder, was named as FC Talanta’s head coach last month, and has taken the team through pre-season.
Speaking to Telecomasia.net, the tactician says she is proud to be a trendsetter and the first woman to achieve the feat, and says her mission will not only be guiding her club to succeed in the Kenyan top flight, but also show women that it is possible to compete at the highest level.
This is a massive achievement for me because it is historic. Becoming the first woman to coach in the Men’s Premier League is no mean feat. I am ready for the challenge and I am ready to show that women can also compete at the top. I have enjoyed the experience so far and now I and the team are ready to show what we have to offer.
Jackie Juma
Juma has been Kenya’s Under-15 girls head coach and graduated second in her CAF A class. She has encouraged women to take up the challenge. Currently, no Premier League side has a woman on their technical bench.
Women should not be afraid to go for these jobs. We are equally qualified and we can do the job. I believe me being here will give them courage.
Jackie Juma
FC Talanta merely survived relegation last season, and her ambition is to ensure they compete well this season.