Kenya Names Young and Promising Squad for Davis Cup Africa Group IV

Sports Updated: 10 June 2026 13:15 EAT

Kenya has unveiled a youthful and ambitious team set to represent the country at the upcoming Davis Cup Africa Group IV tournament, which will be staged in Nairobi from June 17 to 20.

The squad blends emerging talent with experienced players as Kenya looks to capitalize on home advantage and secure promotion to Africa Group III. The team will be led by player-captain Ismael Changawa and includes Kael Shah, Raymond Riziki Oduor, Liberty Baraka Kibuye, Zayyan Virani, Jeff Okuku, and Aum Chandarana. The side will be under the guidance of captain Rosemary Owino, while Allan Cooper will serve as team manager.

Several members of the squad are products of Tennis Kenya's development pathways, reflecting the federation's continued commitment to nurturing young talent and strengthening the country's tennis future. The inclusion of rising stars alongside seasoned competitors is expected to provide the team with both energy and experience as they prepare for the continental competition.

Tennis Kenya President Wanjiru Karani expressed confidence in the team's ability to perform strongly on home soil and called on Kenyans to rally behind the players during the tournament.

“This is a proud moment for Tennis Kenya and for Kenya. We are ready to host the Davis Cup—the World Cup of Tennis. We are ready to compete, cheer, and show the world what Kenyan tennis is all about,” she said.

The Davis Cup Africa Group IV tournament returns to Kenya for the first time since 2019 and will feature eight nations competing for promotion. Participating countries include Algeria, Angola, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and hosts Kenya.

Hosting the tournament is expected to boost local tennis development by exposing players to high-level competition while giving Kenyan athletes the advantage of playing before a home crowd. Tennis Kenya believes the event will also inspire the next generation of players and further strengthen the country's position as a destination for international sporting events.

With a youthful squad eager to make its mark and the backing of home supporters, Kenya will be aiming for a strong campaign and a return to a higher tier of African tennis competition.