Githurai Kimbo picked as pilot project for Africa in newly launched FIVB Volleyball Foundation

On Thursday, International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) launched the FIVB Volleyball Foundation with Githurai Kimbo Volleyball Club Academy selected as the pilot project for Africa.

The foundation seeks to use the global reach and power of volleyball to support community projects worldwide that have a positive impact.

By identifying pioneering projects from across the globe, the Foundation supports and provides funding and resources to advance certified projects that promote the social well-being of communities through volleyball. 

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This is in line with FIVB Goal Number 9 to make volleyball the number one sport that serves the needs of the family through social development and humanitarian programmes. 

Githurai has recently emerged as a hub for volleyball talent and the academy is home to 96 children, 71 boys and 25 girls, from ages six to 18.

Run by current and former Githurai Kimbo Volleyball Club players, who serve as volunteer coaches, and are supported by the Githurai community, the academy teaches volleyball skills, life skills and provides education support as a pathway to a brighter future. 

Some of its notable beneficiaries include middle blockers Brian Kamonde and Josphat Muchai who play for top-tier clubs Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) and Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) as well as Strathmore University’s men’s team libero Peter Kamau.  

"We are thrilled to launch the Volleyball Foundation, which reflects our ongoing commitment to fostering positive change, mass participation and encouraging health and well-being in communities worldwide through volleyball. The Foundation will enable us to further utilise our sport to connect with, serve and inspire global communities through volleyball to improve society,” FIVB president Dr Ary Graca said during the launch.

The latest development is another testament of Graca’s soft spot for Kenya having also selected Kenya’s women national team, Malkia Strikers, as the pilot project for Africa under the transformational FIVB Volleyball Empowerment Programme back in 2021. 

During the launch, a special charity auction was held featuring unique volleyball memorabilia generously donated by legends of the game, including Olympic and World champions with all proceeds going directly to the Volleyball Foundation, providing resources and funding to impactful projects serving communities around the world.

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