In a move that blends anticipation with ambition, the FIVB World Championships 2025 Malkia Strikers journey officially begins. The Kenya Volleyball Federation has drawn back the curtain on the provisional squad, setting the stage for one of Africa’s proudest volleyball nations to chase new heights on the world stage. For fans and players alike, this announcement is much more than a list of names—it’s the first chapter in what promises to be an emotional campaign marked by both resilience and aspiration.
The road to Thailand: a new chapter for Kenyan volleyball
The world will be watching from 22nd August to 7th September 2025 as Thailand hosts the FIVB World Championships, with matches played across the vibrant cities of Bangkok, Nakhon Ratchasima, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. For the Malkia Strikers, being drawn in Pool “G” means matches against formidable teams like Germany, Poland, and Vietnam. The anticipation is palpable, and expectations run high—this squad carries with it the hopes of a nation hungry for global recognition and respect.
A squad shaped by competition and camaraderie
The unveiling of the provisional roster follows an electrifying local season, where the 2025 Kenya Volleyball Federation League women’s tournament culminated in a dramatic final. Kenya Pipeline edged past a determined DCI Kenya 3-2 in a match that kept every spectator at the Kasarani Indoor Arena on their toes. That intensity is precisely what the squad will need as it faces world-class competition.
This year’s provisional squad is more than just a collection of elite athletes—it’s a testament to the growing depth of Kenyan volleyball. Veterans stand shoulder to shoulder with rising stars, each representing powerhouses such as KCB, KPC, PRISONS, DCI, KDF, and others. This blend of experience and youthful exuberance hints at a team built not just for the present, but for the future.
Meet the faces and the leaders behind the campaign
Success in sport is rarely accidental; it’s engineered by visionaries on the sidelines and dedication on the court. At the helm is Head Coach Geoffrey Omondi, whose leadership will be crucial. Supporting him are the tactically astute David Muthui and Esther Jepkosgei. Physical preparation falls under Azenga Mavisi, while Sarah Karongo ensures that injuries do not stand between the players and their dreams.
Preparations are planned meticulously, with the team holding a pre-tournament training camp in Vietnam. This strategic step aims to fine-tune performance and build unity, before the squad sets foot on Thai soil.
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Breaking down the provisional squad: strength in diversity
Let’s look at the depth of talent that Kenya brings to volleyball’s grandest stage:
- Setters – Emmaculate Nekesa (KPC), Fridah Boke (KCB), Marcleen Okoko (PRISONS), Vivian Vuguza (DCI), Vallarie Chepkoech (KDF)
- Middle Blockers – Gladys Ekaru (KPC), Belinda Barasa (KCB), Lorine Kaei (PRISONS), Lydia Emokol (KPC), Elizabeth Sokoiyo (KPC), Pauline Chemutai (KCB)
- Libero – Celestine Nyongesa (KPC), Delphine Misoki (PRISONS), Sharleen Maywa (KCB), Sharon Sandui (PRISONS), Peninah Wafula (DCI)
- Opposite – Loice Simiyu (KPC), Pamela Adhiambo, Marlyn Tata (KCB), Deborah Jesang (KCB), Mercy Iminza (DCI)
- Outside Hitters – Mariam Musa (KPC), Daisy Leting (KPC), Veronicah Adhiambo, Juliana Namutira (KCB), Pauline Itoo (PRISONS), Sarah Namisi (DCI), Meldina Sande (POLICE RWA), Valentine Chemutai (P. BANK).
Each name is a story waiting to unfold, with players like Emmaculate Nekesa and Gladys Ekaru pivotal in orchestrating both defense and attack. For Kenya Pipeline’s Celestine Nyongesa or DCI’s Peninah Wafula, the libero role is all about selflessness and quick thinking—traits that often define champions.
Context on the continental stage
Kenya enters the global contest as only one of Africa’s three representatives, joined by Cameroon and Egypt. Cameroon finds its place in Pool “H” with Ukraine, Serbia, and Japan, while Egypt faces Thailand, the Netherlands, and Sweden in Pool “A”. The shared journey of these African teams highlights the growth of the sport on the continent and the fierce aspirations that drive them to challenge traditional volleyball powerhouses.
Preparation, passion, and purpose
Every squad selection carries echoes of late nights, early mornings, and sacrifices made. For these players, wearing the Kenyan jersey is an honor forged by years of hard work and dreams deferred and revisited. Their training camp in Vietnam represents not just athletic preparation, but a unique moment to bond as a squad—a unity that could be the crucial difference on the pressure-packed courts of Thailand.
What lies ahead—hope and expectation
The FIVB World Championships are not just a competition; they are a crucible where reputations are made, and hearts are tested. For the Malkia Strikers, the next two months will be about sharpening skills, deepening understanding, and turning potential into performance. The old guard’s wisdom and the fire of youth must now blend into a singular will to win.
As attention turns to Bangkok, Nakhon Ratchasima, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, the Malkia Strikers stand ready, their eyes fixed on making their mark and inspiring a new generation of Kenyan athletes. The announcement of this squad is more than news—it is a heartfelt signal of ambition, unity, and the power of sport to ignite a nation’s imagination.
