Sande, Adhiambo lead Malkia Strikers' African title charge

Kenya’s women’s volleyball team, Malkia Strikers, is stepping up preparations for the CAVB Women’s African Nations Volleyball Championship, with the team targeting continental glory on home soil.

The championship is scheduled to begin on August 23, giving the Kenyans an opportunity to use home advantage and a strong squad to challenge for the African title.

Captain Meldine Sande says the team has intensified its preparations and is determined to make the most of playing in front of a home crowd.

“We will not let our country and continent down. The most important thing will be to qualify for the World Championship and later the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028,” Sande said.

Sande’s confidence has been matched by Kenya Cup Most Valuable Player Veronica Adhiambo, who is part of a talented group of outside hitters alongside Sande, Daisy Leting, Jemimah Siang’u, Milkah Akinyi and Juliana Namutira.

Adhiambo admits the team has limited time to prepare but says the players are working hard to reach their best before the tournament.

“As players, we know that we don’t have much time to prepare, but we are trying to push ourselves as much as we can and I’m sure we will come out victorious,” Adhiambo said.

Head coach Geoffrey Odhiambo has called for continued government support as Malkia Strikers pursue their bigger target of qualifying for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

“We have asked the government to continue supporting us because we are sure we can go far with their support. This team has to be in LA in 2028,” Odhiambo said.

Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) president Charles Nyaberi also expressed appreciation for government support, particularly from the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports.

Nyaberi thanked Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya and Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi, saying continued backing will be important as Malkia Strikers seek to establish themselves among Africa’s leading volleyball nations.

“We are very thankful to the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports for the support. Our special thanks goes to the minister Salim Mvurya and his PS Elijah Mwangi for considering us,” Nyaberi said.