Kenya secures historic inclusion to International Ice Hockey Federation
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Reading Time: 2min | Mon. 04.11.24. | 21:12
Kenya is now the only sub-Saharan African country besides South Africa to have an ice rink, and it has become the fifth African nation—alongside Algeria, Morocco, South Africa, and Tunisia—to join the IIHF
Kenya's ice hockey team, the Kenya Ice Lions, recently became part of the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF), joining as the latest member following the Semi-Annual Congress in Rhodes, Greece.
Kenya is now the only sub-Saharan African country besides South Africa to have an ice rink, and it has become the fifth African nation—alongside Algeria, Morocco, South Africa, and Tunisia—to join the IIHF.
Chairman Robert Ouko Ouma led the Kenyan federation in presenting a comprehensive development plan for the sport in Kenya, which played a key role in securing admission to the IIHF.
"This is a historic moment for the sport in Kenya," said Opiyo.
"We are grateful for the support from the global hockey community, which has helped us reach this milestone. It’s our first step toward making the sport accessible to diverse groups across Kenya."
The Kenya Ice Hockey Federation plans to boost the sport's visibility within the broader community and sporting landscape.
It also aims to increase participation, introduce ice hockey events, build a reputation for professional management, and encourage structured training programs.
Additionally, the federation has committed to advocating for an international standard facility and ensuring accountability and financial transparency to achieve financial independence.
Currently, Kenya has one rink, located at Nairobi's Panari Hotel, which measures 32m x 12m—below international standards.
The country has 36 senior players, including 24 men and 12 women, along with over 50 players in youth programs.
Ice hockey in Kenya began in 2006 when a group of Canadians brought equipment to play at Panari, the only ice rink in East and Central Africa.
Growth was slow until interest surged after the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, partly due to media coverage and a viral video sponsored by Alibaba.
Further attention came when the Ice Lions travelled to Canada, sponsored by Tim Hortons, which produced the video "The Away Game." This video, along with an extended version, has received over two million views globally.
The team has received global support, including donations through GoFundMe and sponsorship from Tim Hortons and Alibaba.
The Howe Friendship League has also offered support in various forms.
The Kenya Ice Lions jersey, available online and in Nairobi, has been ranked among the top ten ice hockey jerseys in the world, with profits benefiting the team.
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