Kenya U20 midfielder Hamvin Okoth has reflected on his experience with the Rising Stars, identifying maturity, understanding and regular competitive football as key areas the side must improve to compete better in future international assignments.Okoth made his U20 debut during Kenya's unsuccessful campaign at the concluded CECAFA U20 Championship, where the Rising Stars failed to secure qualification for next year's Africa U20 Cup of Nations in Ghana.Download our Mozzart Sport App for more newsThe 20-year-old midfielder commanded a starting berth as Kenya lost 2-0 to Burundi in the opening match.He was subsequently involved as the team played South Sudan to a 1-1 draw.##NAJAVA_MECA_9984464##The results left Kenya unable to secure a place in the continental tournament, missing out on a return after featuring in the previous edition.For Okoth, who turns out for newly-promoted FKF Premier League side Migori Youth, the experience provided an important lesson on the level required at international youth football.Baraza identifies former Shabana striker as best solution to Harambee Stars’ scoring woesThe holding midfielder believes Kenya's lack of experience and familiarity compared to some of their opponents contributed to their struggles, with the team needing more time together to develop better understanding.“It's a good feeling to make my debut for the national team under the junior side. What I experienced in the tournament needs a lot of maturity because most of us were naive and newcomers. I experienced a lot in terms of playing against opponents who understand each other and are way more experienced, and it's something that needs to be worked on moving forward,” Okoth said.The holding midfielder's comments come after a breakthrough 2025-2026 campaign with Migori Youth, where he played a key role as the club won the National Super League.Okoth missed only one league match during Migori Youth's promotion-winning campaign, establishing himself as an important member of the side before earning his first opportunity with the national U20 team.Why former Gor Mahia striker is backing Migori Youth's survival despite low-profile signingsWith the continental qualification campaign now behind him, Okoth has already set his sights on the next stage of his international career, targeting a place in the Kenya Emerging Stars setup.“My target now, after the tournament which didn't go our way, is to play regularly in the league and get promoted to the U23 team since I will be within the bracket,” he added.