VOLLEYBALL
Frank Rotich 10 days ago

Malkia Strikers squad unveiled ahead of Africa Cup of Nations in August

Malkia Strikers celebrate a point at the 2025 World Championships. [Courtesy]

Kenya’s national women’s volleyball team, Malkia Strikers, has named a new-look provisional squad as they prepare for the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations set to be held in the country this August.

Head coach Geoffrey Omondi unveiled a 24-player squad that includes 11 new faces, showing a clear plan to rebuild the team while keeping experienced players. The announcement was made at the Nyayo National Stadium Basketball Court in Nairobi.

Among the new players are Sheila Khasandi and Pauline Itoo from Kenya Prisons, as well as Jemimah Siang’u, Sarah Namisi, and Caroline Sirengo from DCI. KCB has also contributed fresh talent, including Deborah Chesang’ and Josephine Kataa, while Kenya Pipeline’s Sharon Sandui and Marian Sokoiyo complete the list of new call-ups.

The team’s technical bench will be led by Omondi, assisted by David Muthui and Patrick Sang. Former international player Blackxides Agala has been named the team statistician, with Bella Conceptor serving as physiotherapist. Neddy Kilimo will be the team manager, while Paul Bitok takes up the role of Head of Delegation.

The continental championship, scheduled from August 23 to September 5, will be crucial for Kenya. Apart from competing for the African title, the tournament will also act as a qualifier for the 2027 FIVB Women’s World Championship in Poland and contribute to the qualification path for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.