Malkia Strikers name final squad for World Championship

The Kenya Volleyball Federation on Thursday morning announced the Malkia Strikers' final 14-player squad for the FIVB 2025 World Championship, set for August 22 to September 7 in Thailand. The announcement was made at the Summerdale Inn Hotel in Nairobi.

Seventeen players have been in residential training at the Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium, with two additional players joining as training partners. Directorate of Criminal Investigations outside hitter Sarah Namisi and Kenya Pipeline middle blocker Marriane Sokoiyo will serve in that role.

The team will depart for Vietnam for a series of friendly matches against Vietnam and Spain before heading to Thailand on August 20. Departure will be in two batches, with the first group flying to Vietnam on Thursday night and the second leaving on Friday. Kenya Prisons setter Marcleen Akoko was the only player dropped from the provisional squad.

Kenya has been drawn in Pool G alongside Poland, Germany, and Vietnam, a challenging group, but head coach George Omondi believes his side has the potential to shock opponents.

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“Our pool is tough, but with dedication and teamwork, surprises are possible,” Omondi said. “If we manage to secure friendlies in Serbia, it will give us a clearer picture of where we need to work harder.”

Omondi described the selection process as one of the toughest he has faced, praising the players’ effort and determination.

“So far, so good, morale is high. Players are focused, and everyone is giving their best. Each position has qualities we are looking for, and the difference between seniors and juniors is not huge. You cannot easily tell them apart when you watch them train,” he explained.

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The coach emphasized that selection was purely on merit, with age and experience not being decisive factors.

“The urge and morale to do better, the team spirit in the new players, and their hunger to represent the country have stood out. People should expect a team with the best fighting spirit, one that will fight to secure maximum points as quickly as possible.”

Malkia Strikers sponsor Mozart Bet was represented at the event by Marketing Manager Frank Ochieng.

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Final squad

Setters: Emmaculate Nekesa, Fridah Boke

Liberos: Cellestine Nyongesa, Sharleen Maywa

Left attackers: Juliana Namutira, Meldine Sande (captain), Veronica Adhiambo, Daisy Leting

Opposite hitters: Pamela Adhiambo, Mercy Iminza, Marlyne Tata

Middle blockers: Gladys Ekaru (assistant captain), Belinda Barasa, Lorraine Chebet

Training partners: Sarah Namisi, Marriane Sokoiyo

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Team officials

Head coach: George Omondi

Assistant coaches: David Muthui, Esther Jepkosgei

Team manager: John Oronje

Trainer: Mavisi Azenga

Head of Delegation: Paul Bitok

Chaperone: Neddy Nelimo

Physiotherapist: Sarah Karongo

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