Kenya’s national women’s volleyball team, Malkia Strikers, on Sunday unveiled a provisional squad of 24 players ahead of the 2026 Women’s African Nations Volleyball Championship set to be held in Nairobi from August 23 to September 5.
The squad was announced at the Nyayo National Stadium Basketball Court during an event attended by Kenya Volleyball Federation officials led by Deputy President Paul Bitok, Vice President Kenneth Tanui, National Sports Organising Secretary John Oronje and his deputy Alfred Chedotum.
Head coach Geoffrey Omondi retained a strong core of experienced players while introducing several new faces as Kenya begins early preparations for the tournament, which doubles as a qualifier for both the 2027 FIVB Women’s World Championship in Poland and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
A total of 11 new players have been named in the squad, alongside foreign-based duo Veronica Adhiambo, who plays in Greece, and Meldina Sande of Police Rwanda, as the technical bench looks to strengthen depth and bring international experience into the team.
Kenya will host the continental championship for the first time in 11 years, marking the tournament’s return to the country since 2015 when Malkia Strikers lifted the title on home soil.
Malkia Strikers were last in action at the 2025 FIVB Women’s World Championship in Thailand, finishing 20th overall and registering a historic straight-sets victory over Vietnam.
Malkia Strikers Provisional Squad
Setters
Emmaculate Nekesa (KPC), Fridah Boke (KCB), Esther Mutinda (KCB), Sheila Kasandi (KPR)
Opposite Hitters
Mercy Iminza (DCI), Marlene Terry (KCB), Deborah Chesang (KCB)
Middle Blockers
Gladys Ekaru (KPC), Belinda Barasa (KCB), Lorine Chebet (KPR), Marian Sokoiyo (KPC), Pauline Chemutai (KCB), Mildred Cherop (KCB), Caroline Sirengo (DCI), Ann Lowem (KPR)
Outside Hitters
Veronica Adhiambo (Greece), Meldina Sande (Police Rwanda), Juliana Namutira (KCB), Sarah Namisi (DCI), Jemimah Siang’u (DCI), Pauline Itoo (KPR)
Liberos
Celestine Nyongesa (KPC), Sharon Sandui (KPR), Josephine Kataa (KCB)
Team Officials
Head Coach: Geoffrey Omondi
Assistant Coaches: David Muthui, Patrick Sang
Statistician: Blackxides Agala
Physiotherapist: Bella Conceptor
Team Manager: Neddy Kilimo
Head of Delegation: Paul Bitok
