Kenya Kabaddi team calls for government support after conquering Africa

After securing their victory against Uganda in the Africa 2024 Championship final on Saturday, June 29, 2024, Kenya national men’s Kabaddi team is celebrating their success while highlighting a pressing issue – the lack of support from the government, specifically the Ministry of Sports.

Team captain David Silishia has expressed disappointment over what he described as neglect from the ministry, despite ensuring Kenya are crowned the African champions.

“Kabaddi is a very good sport and our players are putting in the effort, but sometimes we do not get the necessary support from the ministry,” Silishia emphasized.

Despite their recent triumph, including a bronze medal at the Bangabandhu Cup in Bangladesh, Silishia highlighted the discrimination in treatment compared to their colleague in other sports.

“Just the other day we won a bronze medal in the Bangabandhu Cup but up to date, we have not received a single congratulatory message from the Ministry,” lamented Silishia.

Silishia also highlighted the stark contrast in support between Kabaddi and other disciplines considered prominent like the women's volleyball team, Malkia Strikers.

“Malkia Strikers receive comprehensive support at Kasarani, including medical care, while many of our players struggle with injuries without such resources,” he noted.

David Kamweti, named the man-of-the-match after Saturday's triumph, echoed Silishia's sentiments, emphasizing the team's potential with adequate backing.

“With proper support, we believe we can conquer the world at the Kabaddi World Cup. We have talent and dedication, we just need the Ministry's support to realize our full potential,” Kamweti declared optimistically.

However, amidst the calls for support, Kenya Kabaddi Union Secretary General Japheth Munyendo expressed gratitude to the government, for enabling the successful hosting of the Africa Kabaddi Championship in Nairobi.

“I want to thank the Kenyan government for creating an enabling environment for us to host the tournament,” Munyendo acknowledged.

As Kenya's Kabaddi team gears up for next year's World Cup in England, their appeal for governmental support echoes strongly as they aim to capitalize on their recent successes and leave a mark on the global stage.