Kenya’s Esse Akida Joins Besiktas In Turkey

Harambee Starlets forward Esse Akida has signed for Turkish outfit Besiktas on a two-year-deal.

The 27-year-old came through the Kenya Women’s Premier League before moving to Israel in October 2018.

“I’m super glad to be joining Besiktas. It is a big club with a rich history and once I learned about their interest I didn’t have to think twice,” Akida said.

“They are a regular in the Champions League and it’s always been my aim to feature in the competition. It is a good chance for me to continue working hard and give my best to help the team. I can’t wait to get started.”

Besiktas is currently placed second in the Turkish Women’s First Football League with 36 points, one point below leaders ALG Sport.

They will bank on Akida to help them win as many matches as possible in the remaining 13 games of the current campaign.

The former Thika Queens attacker has now taken the tally of Harambee Starlets plying their trade abroad to 10 and six in Europe, and will also feature in the group stages of the Women’s Champions League.

Akida was part of the Harambee Starlets squad that made history by reaching the finals of 2016 women’s African Cup of Nations.