SG William Kinuthia tips rafting sport to make a splash in Kenya

Speaking during the final day of the four-day event on Sunday, Kenya Rafting Federation Secretary General William Kinuthia predicted the game was poised for growth, admitting there is immense potential ready to be tapped in the country.

“We all saw how Kenyans are talented in rafting. As a federation, we have undertaken to popularise the sport. We are planning to partner with schools so as to introduce rafting in schools. The discussion will also involve how we can include the sport in inter-schools championships,” said Kinuthia.

The official also revealed there was a push by the International Rafting Federation (IRF) to have white water rafting sport join kayak and canoe races already on the Olympic lineup, potentially as soon as the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

The four-day event that attracted 11 countries, Kenya emerged as the undisputed champion in the inaugural championship after sweeping all gold medals on offer to send a huge statement of intent ahead of the future events.

In a stellar show of great skills and sportsmanship, Kenya bossed their opponents in the waters, securing top positions in the Slalom races for both men and women, the Downriver competition in both categories, the Rx event, and the Mixed Slalom that featured both male and female athletes.

Speaking during the awarding ceremony, Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi lauded the recently established Rafting Federation of Kenya for successfully organizing the international competition.

“The government is committed to supporting all sports federations to organize such events, which are key to nurturing Kenyan talent. This rafting win again reaffirms our solid belief that Kenya is a sporting powerhouse not just in athletics but also in disciplines.”

He further urged the federations to also seek support from the private sector to strengthen and grow the sport even further.

African Rafting Federation President, Belabbas El Mamou, expressed satisfaction with Kenya’s hosting of the event, revealing that plans are already underway to bring the World Rafting Championships to Kenya next year, citing the country’s superior natural rafting course compared to other nations.

As continental champions, Kenya is now poised to represent Africa at the World Championships in Argentina, November this year.

The championship has set the stage for more regional and global events to be hosted in the country, with Kenya firmly anchoring itself as a continental powerhouse in the sport.