The men’s national team began non-residential training at the Nyayo Gymnasium in Nairobi on Wednesday as preparations intensified for the championship, scheduled for 7–21 September in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The tournament will mark Kenya’s first appearance at the African Men’s Nations Championship. The team will be looking to end years of living in the shadow of the more established Malkia Strikers and establish itself among Africa’s leading volleyball nations.
Sixteen countries have secured places at the championship, including Egypt, Algeria, Libya, Cameroon, Rwanda, Tunisia, Chad, Morocco, Kenya, Uganda, The Gambia, Nigeria, the Central African Republic and Zimbabwe.
Bitok said a month-long preparation programme, backed by the federation and the Ministry of Sports, has given the team a strong platform to pursue its Olympic ambitions.
He said the current federation leadership made a deliberate decision three years ago to give Wafalme Stars the same level of exposure and support previously enjoyed by the women’s team.
“When we came into office three years ago, we decided to give the men’s team an equal chance, just like the ladies. Previously, they were not given an equal opportunity.
“Now, having competed in the All-Africa Games, youth and junior championships, where our youth boys finished third and our men claimed silver, they have proved what they can achieve when supported,” Bitok said.
The veteran tactician is also encouraged by the quality of the squad, which combines emerging talent from the KVF National League and Kenya Cup with professionals returning from overseas.
“We have several professional players back in the squad alongside young, vibrant talent who showed exceptional ability this season. After finishing second at the All-Africa Games, this team has shown that it has what it takes to win the African title and follow in the footsteps of our sisters,” he said.
With the Ministry of Sports providing financial support and Kenyan fans already mobilising to travel to Kinshasa, Bitok believes the team will not lack backing on the continental stage.
“Our fans supported us through Zone V, with many travelling to Kampala, and some have already bought tickets to go to the DR Congo. The level of support from both the government and the fans is incredible.
“We urge Kenyans to keep believing in this team as we push for both the men’s and women’s continental titles,” he added.
Head coach Gideon Tarus, who recently guided General Service Unit (GSU) to retain the Kenya Cup title, said the team’s early sessions are focused on sharpening ball-handling skills before attention shifts to blocking and backcourt defence.
“Luckily, the players are fresh from competing in the Kenya Cup and National League, so everyone is in shape. Today, Wednesday, we focused on ball handling, and we intend to step up our work in the other departments in the coming weeks,” Tarus said.
The provisional 20-man squad features debutants such as KDF outside hitter Moses Macharia, GSU middle blocker Victor Cheruiyot and middle blocker Rollings Juma. They join experienced professionals returning from overseas and leading performers from the domestic league.
The technical bench will reduce the squad to 14 players over the next two weeks. The final group will travel to Kinshasa to complete the four-week preparation programme ahead of the championship.
