Kisumu stun Siaya as Para Volleyball action heats up in Mombasa

The Inter-County Para Volleyball Championships in Mombasa are serving up high intensity action, dramatic upsets, and inspiring determination at the Aga Khan Academy.

Only 13 counties have made it to the competition due to financial challenges, but the reduced numbers have not dimmed the competitive fire on display.

In one of the most thrilling matches so far, Kisumu pulled off a stunning 3-2 victory over two-time defending champions Siaya.

After racing to a two-set lead of 25-14, 25-22, Kisumu saw Siaya fight back to level the match. However, Kisumu kept their composure to clinch the decisive set 15-13.

Kisumu official Len Charles Ndago highlighted both the team’s performance and the struggles behind the scenes:

“Beating Siaya shows what we’re capable of, even with the challenges we face in transport, accommodation, and food. We just need proper support from the county because the potential is there.”

Hosts Mombasa had a difficult outing, going down 3-0 to Laikipia (25-16, 25-11, 25-15). Uasin Gishu were in dominant form as they swept aside Migori 3-0, while Nairobi secured a solid straight-sets win over Makueni (25-23, 25-19, 27-25).

In the women’s contest, Nairobi battled past Kisumu 3-1 in a tightly contested clash. Makueni and Migori both registered convincing straight-set wins over Mombasa.

Uasin Gishu captain Miriam Wanjiru expressed confidence in her team’s ambitions:

“Our goal is to win this title and represent Kenya at the African Championship in Nigeria, and hopefully qualify for the World Championship. Victories like the one against Nairobi give us belief because they’ve always been tough opponents.”

The absence of three-time women’s champions Baringo due to lack of sponsorship continues to shine a spotlight on funding issues affecting the sport.

Para Volley Kenya Secretary General Justus Katumo acknowledged the competitiveness of the tournament but raised concerns over dwindling participation:

“The competition has been very strong despite having fewer teams, and we hope the eventual winners will be good ambassadors for Kenya in Nigeria.”

He also called on county governments to prioritize support for para sports:

“Counties need to step up and invest in these teams. Players are not asking for handouts, they want empowerment and the resources to compete at their best.”

“We plan to engage the Council of Governors because participation has dropped significantly. Financial constraints have limited us to just 13 teams, which is a big concern.”