Holders Malkia Strikers will be building on home advantage as they seek to retain the African Women Volleyball Championships that serves off today in Nairobi, Kenya.
The 2026 CAVB Women’s National Volleyball Championship is set to be staged at Kasarani Indoor Arena and Ulinzi Sports Complex, Lang’ata and will serve off from today August 25 to September 5.
The Geoffrey Omondi coached side with begin their title defence against Zambia 19:00 hours after opening ceremony.
However, other nations will serve off their championships at 10:00am at the Kasarani and Ulinzi with DRC Congo taking on Burundi (Ulinzi), Senegal and Uganda (kasarani) in the opening fixtures at 10:00hours, followed by Egypt and Burkina Faso (kasarani) and Rwanda playing Algeria at 12:30 hours in Ulinzi.
Cameroon vs Ghana (kasarani) and Tunisia vs Nigeria (ulinzi) will follow at 15:00hours before the opening ceremony.
Yesterday, the government through the ministry of sports tipped the national Women’s Volleyball teams the Malkia Strikers to win and retain the title last won in 2023 in Younde, Cameroon hosts the continental championships first time in 11 years.
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The Cabinet Secretary for Sports Salim Mvuyra has tipped the reigning Africa champions, Malkia Strikers, to electrify the tournament and overcome tough competition from 15 top-tier teams and win their eleventh African title home soil.
The CS stated that a continental win will see Malkia qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games and the next year’s World Championships.
“We cannot afford to lose this competition. This event is a qualifier for two championships and therefore I call on you to do the needful. I’m happy that we are hosting this event. We have the advantage of being the host but more so, the fact that you will be representing the 55 million Kenyans is enough motivation,” said the CS.
The CS disclosed that the Ministry was developing a sports policy that will accelerate the commercialization of sports as part of bolstering the players’ talents and ensure sports was a gainful employer.
He also stated that this championship was a landmark event that showcased the country’s vibrant tourism and hospitality.
KVF president Nyaberi lauded the Ministry for their continued support in talent development, national and international assignments.
Team’s head coach Geoffrey Omondi and Captain Meldina Sande said they have prepared well and they were keen to retain the title but urged the CS to reward them handsomely.
“We acknowledge the ministry’s support and sponsorship. Please continue with that spirit and if possible, request the President to come watch the African champions play on their home soil,” said Sande.
The meeting was attended by the Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi, KVF officials and a delegation from CAVB led by the President of Competition Control Committee Fredrick Ndlovu.