Trailblazing wrestlers Nakhumicha and Nyatuka to represent Kenya in Youth Olympic Games

Jemimah Nakhumicha (65kg) and Calvin Nyatuka (70kg) have secured coveted spots at the global event, marking a significant milestone for Kenyan wrestling. Their qualification comes on the back of impressive performances on the international stage over the past year.

Nakhumicha has been in exceptional form, clinching gold and silver medals at the African Beach Games and the African Freestyle Wrestling Championships in Casablanca, Morocco.

Her achievements have placed her at the top of the African rankings in beach wrestling.

Nyatuka, a gold medalist at the East African level, has also demonstrated consistency and determination, earning his place among the continent’s rising wrestling stars.

Several other Kenyan wrestlers remain in contention as they await confirmation from the global wrestling body. From the men’s side, Dan Kegode, Clinton Omari, Galfin Kalabayi, and Vincent Waweru are hopeful of joining the team.

On the women’s side, Joy Lichuma, Nancy Sophia, Janet Ingwesi, and Joy Shalyng are also eyeing qualification.

The news has been warmly welcomed by the Kenya Amateur Wrestling Association, signaling a promising future for the sport in the country.

“We are very grateful to the Government of Kenya for sponsoring these athletes to the Olympic qualification events.

“This support has enabled us to secure at least two slots so far, and we are still working towards qualifying more wrestlers,” said Secretary General Eric Walucho.

“I also extend my appreciation to the federation, parents, schools, and the wrestlers themselves for their dedication and effort.”

Attention now shifts to Naivasha, where the final selection for the African Championships will take place. The continental competition is scheduled to run from April 19 to May 5, 2026, in Alexandria, Egypt.

The Kenyan team will comprise senior, junior, and cadet wrestlers drawn from over 20 clubs, including school-based programs.

An initial selection was conducted in February at Kamiti Maximum Prison in Nairobi, where more than 100 wrestlers across various weight categories competed for spots.

A similar turnout is expected in Naivasha as athletes vie for inclusion in the final squad. Meanwhile, the African Beach Wrestling Championships continue to serve as a key qualification pathway for the cadet team aiming to compete at the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar.

With momentum building and more athletes on the verge of qualification, Kenyan wrestling appears poised for a strong showing on the continental and global stage.