MP Wanyama says volleyball teams not given enough attention

The Webuye West MP said the Ministry of Sports has neglected the sport compared to other disciplines despite Kenya’s potential with Malkia Strikers the most successful national team in Kenya with 15 continental titles-10 African Championships titles and five African Games crowns.

The former Kenyan international spoke after witnessing the just concluded 13th edition of African Games in Accra, Ghana where the two national volleyball teams posted mixed results.

Malkia Strikers failed to defend their 2019 title settling for bronze while returning Wafalme Stars clinched silver in the men’s category finishing behind winners Egypt.

The legislator believes had the two teams received the required preparations prior to the championship, Kenya would have ruled in Accra.

“First I want to congratulate our teams for a good fight in Accra. Finishing second and third respectively isn’t an easy task. I remember captaining Wafalme in the 7th edition of the All Africa games where we settled for bronze meaning it’s a big achievement winning silver this year.

“Our teams had very little time in the camp before the competition and I believe if they had enough time and exposure they would have won gold medals. I watched the men's final against Egypt where we lost by straight sets against Egypt and clearly you could see that Egypt had enough exposure.

“They most of the time do their training early and most of the time outside the country and that needs to be replicated to Wafalme and Malkia. As the chairman of the parliamentary sports committee I will talk to the minister of Sports Ababu Namwamba  together with his Permanent Secretary to ensure that it is looked at.”

Wanyama's sentiments were echoed by committee member, who is also the Mwingi West Member of parliament, Charles Nguna Ngusya.

“I also join my colleague chairman in congratulating both teams. They really fought well and the results have exceeded expectations for this year. We are hoping that they will do wonders in the Olympics and other competitions if they are given the deserved support from the government which includes early preparations.”