Malkia Strikers’ three continental debutants are relishing the chance to make their mark as Kenya bids to retain the African Nations Championship title and secure the continent’s sole ticket to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
Libero pair Josephine Kataa and Sharon “Shakahola” Arusei and outside hitter Milka Akinyi are the new faces in the 14-player squad unveiled on Saturday.
All three missed last year’s FIVB Women’s World Championship in Thailand and will now get their first taste of senior continental competition when Kenya hosts the championship from August 22 to September 5.
Akinyi, 18, is particularly eager to build on her recent success after helping Kenya’s Under-20 team win the continental title in Cameroon last year.
The St Cecilia Aluor Form Four student will compete with experienced internationals Veronica Adhiambo and captain Meldina Sande, as well as emerging attacker Daisy Jepkorir, for a place on the wing.
“I’m extremely happy and excited about the development. I have put in the work in the training and listening to the coaches’ instructions has made me a better player,” Akinyi said.
“My inclusion in the team is a prove to other upcoming players that hard work and commitment pays off.”
Kataa, who plays for KCB, and Kenya Pipeline’s Arusei will strengthen the defensive department.
Middle blocker Marian Sokoiyo has also been rewarded for her progress after being named in last year’s provisional World Championship squad but missing the final team.
Setter Esther Mutinda returns after missing the Thailand tournament.
Head coach Geoffrey Omondi said Kenya’s preparations were on course but warned that the defending champions would have to raise the bar.
“We are ready. The title will remain at home,” Omondi said. “I know it will not be a walk in the park but we are doing everything possible to see to it that we qualify. We have a few days to tighten the loose ends.”
The championship will be staged at Kasarani Indoor Arena and Ulinzi Sports Complex in Nairobi, with Kenya chasing a record-extending 11th crown.
Captain Sande said, “We have had good training and we look forward to the championship. I’m happy for the new players that have made it to the squad and I wish them well. We are eager and ready to retain the title.”
Kenya Volleyball Federation president Charles Nyaberi said the players must embrace the pressure that comes with playing at home.
“Definitely the pressure is on. One, we are at home. Two, only one team from the event will qualify for Olympic Games and three, we are the defending champions.”
The final squad comprises Sande (captain), Akinyi, Jepkorir and Adhiambo; Gladys Ekaru (assistant captain), Sokoiyo, Lorine Chebet and Belinda Barasa; Terry Tata and Mercy Iminza; and liberos Kataa and Arusei.
Juliana Namutira, Jemimah Siang’u, Sharon Sandui, Deborah Jesanga, Linah Ogweno and Pauline Chemtai missed the final cut.
