Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) vice-president Paul Bitok believes a Sh17.3 million incentive package will motivate and intensify competition in the 2026/27 National League.
Under a new partnership between KVF and betting firm betPawa, players and technical staff will receive Sh4,000 each for a win under the Locker Room Bonus programme.
The initiative is expected to benefit 494 players and technical staff across the men’s and women’s leagues, with 14 players and two members of the technical bench from each winning team receiving payments directly through their mobile money wallets.
Bitok, a former international player and Malkia Strikers coach, said the programme will particularly benefit smaller clubs by giving them additional motivation to challenge established sides.
“I have been a player and coach, and we did not have this kind of motivation. It is a game changer for the small teams,” he said.
He cited Kapu’s victory over Chema in a men’s friendly on Wednesday as an early indication of the competitive spirit the incentives could inspire ahead of the new season. DCI also defeated Kenya Defence Forces in a women’s match.
“Last year, team number seven KAPU beat team number two CHEMA (in the playoffs). I believe this will send a warning to those champions,” Bitok said.
The partnership was launched alongside a training and onboarding session that brought together 52 participants from 26 teams, as well as federation officials, to ensure bonuses are distributed transparently.
The wider sponsorship package also includes support for federation operations and prize money for league finalists.
Bitok said strengthening domestic competition was essential to sustaining Kenya’s international standing, pointing to the Malkia Strikers’ continental achievements.
Kenya claimed their 10th African title in 2023 after defeating Egypt 3-0 (25-22, 25-20, 25-14) in Yaoundé, Cameroon. However, Egypt reclaimed the crown in 2026 with a straight-sets victory over Kenya.
Bitok also praised clubs for supporting the federation during financial challenges last season, citing KCB’s contribution towards venue costs and assistance from Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) and Kenya Pipeline for trophies.
KPA won the men’s league title after defeating debutants Chema in the final, while Kenya Pipeline retained the women’s crown.
KVF organising secretary John Oronje said league draws would be conducted on Saturday, with 16 men’s teams expected in the top division. Player registration is scheduled to begin this weekend, while the federation is also planning second-division competitions for men and women.
A tournament in Eldoret is planned before November 15, although the venue is yet to be confirmed.
The federation hopes the incentives will improve player motivation, narrow the gap between clubs and make the new season more competitive.
