From the grassroots fields of Kenya to lifting trophies in Tanzania, Carolyne Rufa’s journey is a testament to resilience, talent, and unshakable passion for the beautiful game.
The Kenyan goalkeeper, who currently dons the gloves for Tanzania’s Simba Queens 🇹🇿 and the Kenyan national team, Harambee Starlets 🇰🇪, has steadily carved out a name for herself as one of the most outstanding shot-stoppers in the region.
Rufa’s club journey is a story of growth and relentless ambition. She began her career with SEP Oyugis in Kenya before sharpening her skills at the GETS Program and Mash Queens Mwanza in Tanzania. Her performances caught attention, leading her to Fountain Gate Princess and ultimately to the powerhouse Simba Queens — a club where she has truly blossomed into a champion.
Rufa has celebrated several major milestones, clinching the Tanzanian Women’s Premier League title, the Community Shield, and the Tanzanian Division One Women’s League. Her individual brilliance has not gone unnoticed either — she was crowned Best Goalkeeper in both the Tanzanian Women’s Premier League and the Community Shield, further stamping her authority as a force between the posts.
Before her rise at Simba Queens, Rufa had already made her mark on the regional stage, leading her team to victory at the Chapa Dimba na Safaricom tournament and being named Best Goalkeeper — early glimpses of the star she was destined to become.
Internationally, Rufa’s story continues to inspire. She received her first national recognition with the Kenya U20 team in 2021 and earned her senior Harambee Starlets call-up in 2023, showcasing her steady climb through the ranks.
Although she has not been in action since August 2024 due to injury, Rufa remains determined and focused. She is working hard behind the scenes towards a strong return to active football, fueled by the same drive and passion that have defined her career.
As she continues her recovery journey, Carolyne Rufa not only inspires aspiring footballers across East Africa but also contributes to the growing momentum behind women’s football in the region. With every save, every trophy, and every comeback, Rufa proves that dreams are valid — and that greatness is well within reach for those who dare to chase it.
