Kenya’s female cadets shine on Day 1 of African Wrestling Championships

Team Kenya made a strong and inspiring start at the ongoing African Wrestling Championships in Alexandria, Egypt, with the country’s female cadet wrestlers delivering an impressive medal haul on the opening day of competition.

The championships, which kicked off on April 27, began with Greco-Roman contests across all weight categories and will run through to May 2, culminating in the senior freestyle events.

Kenya’s female cadet team led the charge, securing four medals in total one silver and three bronze marking a significant achievement for the developing wrestling program.

Jemimah Nakhumicha (65kg) emerged as one of the standout performers, clinching a silver medal after a series of determined bouts.

Speaking after her performance, Shalline Joy expressed gratitude for both the team’s preparation and the support received in Egypt.

“We have been welcomed well and given proper accommodation here in Alexandria. The good preparation has really helped me. I managed to beat opponents from Angola and Mauritius to secure a bronze medal,” she said.

She went on: “I am now aiming for gold in my next assignment and hope to qualify for the Youth Olympics.”

Silver medallist Jemimah Nakhumicha also credited her achievement to discipline and consistent training, despite facing significant challenges back home.

“I wake up at four in the morning and train for an hour before school. After school, I train again. Even though we lack proper training facilities, I’ve managed to win silver. This shows there is a lot of untapped potential in Kenya.”