The Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) is intensifying preparations ahead of the 2026 Women’s African Nations Volleyball Championship scheduled from August 23 to September 5 in Nairobi. The Kasarani Indoor Arena will serve as the main venue for the continental event.
KVF President Charles Nyaberi highlighted the urgent need for modern indoor sports facilities in Kenya. He explained that the country has not hosted international volleyball tournaments for over a decade due to the lack of at least two venues meeting international standards.
Currently, Kasarani Indoor Arena is the only facility that complies with these requirements. Efforts are underway to upgrade the Ulinzi Complex to serve as an alternative venue for the championship.
Nyaberi appealed to the government and private sector to invest in world-class indoor arenas to enable Kenya to consistently host international competitions in the future. He also stressed the importance of strong fan support, urging volleyball enthusiasts to fill the stands and energize the home team, the Malkia Strikers.
Kenya last hosted the championship in 2015, where the Malkia Strikers clinched the title. The upcoming tournament will feature 16 teams and acts as a qualifier for the 2027 FIVB Women’s World Championship in Poland and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
The Malkia Strikers will aim to secure their 11th title on home soil, having won the 2023 championship by defeating Egypt 3-0, ending Cameroon’s eight-year reign.
Notably, FIVB President Fabio Azevedo and four vice presidents are expected to attend the week-long event, underscoring its significance in the volleyball calendar.
