Triumphant Kenyan wrestling team jet back with medals galore

Janet Ingwesi led the team’s medal haul, clinching gold in the women’s 70kg freestyle category and adding a silver medal in the 75kg beach wrestling event.

Jemimah Nakhumicha earned silver in the women’s 65kg freestyle division but missed the beach wrestling event in the same category due to an ankle injury.

In the 49kg category, both Dyvonter Ashly Odongo and Joy Shalyng secured silver medals. Bronze medals were won by Joy Lichuma (57kg), Nancy Sophia, and Dan Kegode (60kg) in their respective categories.

President of the Kenya Amateur Wrestling Association Anthony Kariuki praised the team’s performance, noting that the championship served as an important ranking tournament and a key step in preparations for the upcoming Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal.

“We are grateful to the government for the support. Eight medals is a good performance by the youth, and we are very grateful,” he said.

The federation is now focused on increasing its representation at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games despite missing out on qualification for this year's Commonwealth Games.

Speaking on behalf of the athletes, Devonte Ashley remained optimistic while reflecting on both victories and setbacks.

“My toughest match was against an Egyptian opponent who was very technical and strong. I wasn’t happy with the loss. I was emotional but I composed myself and reassured myself that I will come back stronger,” she said.

With the African Championships concluded, the young Kenyan wrestling team returns home with heads held high, carrying valuable lessons as they shift focus to the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar and continue preparations for the 2028 Olympic Games.