The Kenya Volleyball National Team, known as Malkia Strikers, was off to a promising start in the African Nations Volleyball Championship, with three points in hand as they approach their second match.

In a thrilling opening match of the 2023 championship, guided by Coach Luizomar, the team displayed their dominance by sweeping aside familiar rivals Rwanda in a commanding 3-0 victory (25-16, 25-20, 25-17).

Malikia tied with UG/Morocco

This impressive performance has firmly positioned them at the top of Pool A, alongside Uganda and Morocco who have three points.

The Malkia Strikers currently share the leaderboard with Uganda and Morocco, all boasting three points from their respective victories. Uganda and Morrocco shower enjoy super difference having conceded less points.

Captain Mercy Moim, along with setter Emmaculate Chemtai, led the team’s charge. The formidable lineup included Middle Blockers Barasa and Mukuvilani, Veronica Adhiambo, and the promising young talent Simiyu, who stepped in admirably for the injured powerhouse Sharon Chepchumba, sustaining a minor injury during a previous friendly match against Rwanda.

In a commanding display, the Malkia Strikers claimed the first set, 25-16. Despite strategic adjustments by Rwanda, they secured the second set, 25-20.

Fueled by their pursuit of a historic 10th Continental Crown, often referred to as “La Decima,” the Kenyan team roared back in the third set, sealing their victory at 25-17 and ultimately securing a 3-0 win.

In Pool A, Cameroon, Egypt, and Nigeria have also gathered three points each.

Malkia Strikers’ second date

The stage is now set for Malkia Strikers as they prepare to face Burkina Faso on August 17, 2023, at 4:00 pm East African Time.

With each step of their campaign, the team remains steadfast in their mission to claim the championship title and, of utmost importance, secure qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games – a coveted spot reserved exclusively for the highest-ranked African team based on the upcoming FIVB Rankings.

View all standings here