Kenya’s Grandmothers Take on the World in Football

ISAAC KOGEI 

 

Age is often seen as a barrier to physical activity, with aging muscles and tendons making movement more challenging.

 

But for a group of grandmothers from Mutei, Tembelio, in Uasin Gishu County, age is just a number—and they are proving it on the football field.

 

While many grandmothers spend their days telling stories to their grandchildren, these remarkable women are writing history with their love and passion for football.

 

The Kenya Grannies Mutei FC, a squad of 28 women aged between 52 and 75, is showcasing extraordinary football skills, defying stereotypes and inspiring generations.

 

 

Football for Fitness and Passion

 

Founded in May last year, the team was born out of a desire to combat age-related conditions through active sports. What started as a local initiative has grown into a movement, attracting global attention as the only grandmothers’ football club in East Africa.

 

Elizabeth Keitany, the founder of the team, says the idea came after a doctor advised her to involve her ailing mother in physical exercise. What began as a simple fitness routine has transformed into an international sporting journey.

 

Now, the grandmothers are preparing for their biggest challenge yet—representing East Africa at the Grannies International Football Tournament in Limpopo, South Africa. This will be their debut on the international stage, and they are determined to make their mark.

 

 

A Historic Send-Off

 

Their efforts have not gone unnoticed. Uasin Gishu County Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim led a colorful send-off ceremony, flagging off the team as they embarked on their journey to South Africa.

 

“These women are an inspiration, proving that age is no limitation when passion and determination come into play,” the governor said during the event.

 

The team will travel through Nairobi before heading to South Africa, where they will compete against teams from across the world this April.

 

 

Changing the Narrative on Aging

 

The Kenya Grannies Mutei FC is not just about football—it is about changing perceptions of aging, promoting active lifestyles, and proving that dreams have no expiry date. With every kick, pass, and goal, these grandmothers are redefining what it means to grow older, showing that strength, agility, and spirit can last a lifetime.

 

As they step onto the international stage, they carry with them the pride of Kenya, the dreams of many, and a powerful message—age is just a number, but passion is timeless.