Gichuhi to lead Kenya’s charge at Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics
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Reading Time: 3min | Tue. 14.10.25. | 14:49
He looks up to American Olympic legend Michael Phelps, whose achievements continue to inspire him to aim higher
After years of resilience, sacrifice and determination, Francis Gichuhi is on the verge of living his dream of representing Kenya on the global stage.
The 24-year-old swimmer has been named captain of Kenya’s Deaf Swimming Team for the Tokyo 2025 Summer Deaflympics, which will take place from15-26 November in Japan.
He will lead a squad of eight swimmers, including Lilian Njeri, Faith Wayua, Jimale Suheib, Salim Mbaraka, Hamadi Ali Juma, Hassan Hamisi, and Yusuf Saddam, as Kenya seeks to make a mark at one of the world’s biggest sporting events for deaf athletes.
For Gichuhi, the Deaflympics call-up is the culmination of a journey that began at Machakos School for the Deaf, where his love for swimming first took shape.
“I am really proud to represent Kenya and to be named team captain. It is something I have dreamed about since 2019, when I was in high school. I can not wait to compete in Tokyo,” he said after a training session at Kasarani Stadium.
Gichuhi will compete in the 50-metre backstroke, 50-metre breaststroke, and 100-metre breaststroke.
He and his teammates secured their Deaflympics qualification during the national trials held at the United States International University Africa on 26 August.
As preparations intensify, Gichuhi says his focus is on improving speed, endurance, and teamwork to ensure a strong performance in Tokyo.
“The team spirit is strong and everyone is giving their best,” he said. “We are working to improve our personal bests and endurance. I believe we can win medals for Kenya. Our goal is to bring home gold.”
Gichuhi lost his hearing at the age of four after being diagnosed with meningitis, a life-changing experience that did not stop him from pursuing his sporting dreams.
Although he played football and basketball while growing up, swimming became his passion and purpose.
“Swimming has helped me physically and mentally,” he said. “It has kept me disciplined and focused. My body fitness has improved greatly, and I feel confident every time I get into the pool.”
He looks up to American Olympic legend Michael Phelps, whose achievements continue to inspire him to aim higher.
Team coach Irene Kerubo says the squad will enter residential training this Sunday, with the main focus on endurance and speed.
“Our swimmers have shown great improvement since we began training,” she said. “For the middle distances, especially the 100 and 200 metres, I believe we have a good chance of winning medals.”
All eight Kenyan swimmers will compete in multiple events at the Games.
Kenya Deaf Swimming Federation Secretary General Charles Odira expressed confidence that the team will make history in Tokyo.
“We are very proud of these athletes,” he said. “They have trained hard and shown great commitment. We believe Kenya will shine in Japan and bring home medals.”
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