Junior Malkia Strikers Clinch Maiden African U-20 Volleyball Crown
Kenya's Under-20 women's volleyball team claimed its first-ever African championship on Monday, 11 August 2025, beating hosts Cameroon 3–1 in Yaoundé. The match unfolded as follows:
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Set 1: Kenya edged it 26–24, despite the home-court pressure.
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Set 2: Cameroon responded with a stronger showing, taking it 25–19 to delight the home crowd.
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Set 3: Kenya fought back fiercely to win a nail-biting 28–26.
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Set 4: They sealed the title with a commanding 25–16 finish.
The victory avenged their earlier 3–1 group-stage loss to Cameroon and secured their spot at the 2026 FIVB U-20 World Championship in Surabaya, Indonesia. Egypt clinched bronze, defeating Senegal 3–0.
Coach Jackline Barasa noted that Cameroon seemed overwhelmed on the big stage, which Kenya tactically exploited.
“We played well, but our opponents looked scared of us. Despite beating us 3-1 in the preliminary last week, we controlled the game and won our maiden title with minimal difficulties.”
Deputy Kenya Volleyball Federation President Paul Bitok praised the squad for making history, likening their success to the senior team’s dominance.
“I would like to congratulate the U20 Junior Malkia Strikers for making history. They defeated Cameroon 3-1 to become African champions like their senior sisters did last year. As the Kenya Volleyball Federation, we are proud of the Junior team for winning their first-ever African title and qualifying for the World Championship.”
Tournament standout Malyne “Terry” Tata Idachi earned MVP honors for her exceptional contributions, especially at the opposite position, while Milka Akinyi was named Best Outside Hitter.
Kenya and Cameroon both qualified for the 2026 World Championship, but this triumph marked Kenya's first continental title at this level.
Tags: Kenya Volleyball Federation
