By Ngunyi Sonita Nwohtazie
Kenya’s women’s U-20 volleyball team etched their name in continental glory on Monday, August 11, defeating hosts Cameroon 3–1 to lift the African Women’s U-20 Volleyball Championship trophy in Yaounde.
The clash at the Yaounde Sports Complex was a thrilling showcase of talent, grit, and determination. Kenya drew first blood with a narrow 26–24 victory in the opening set, only for Cameroon to strike back 25–19 in the second. The young Kenyan side dug deep in a nail-biting third set, edging past the hosts 28–26, before sealing the championship with a commanding 25–16 win in the fourth.
For head coach Jackline Barasa and her squad, the triumph was deeply emotional. Several players fought back tears as they celebrated on court, their jubilation echoing through the arena. “We are extremely happy. Cameroon played well, and we congratulate them for such a fierce match,” Barasa said after the game.
Back home, the celebrations extended to the highest office, as President William Ruto took to the social media platform X to laud the Junior Malkia Strikers for their feat.
“Congratulations to Kenya’s Under-20 women’s volleyball team for delivering a spectacular 3–1 victory over hosts Cameroon to claim the African Nations U-20 Championship in Yaoundé. From the football pitch to the volleyball court, our athletes are showing the continent what unity, talent, and resilience can achieve,” he wrote.
The President reserved special praise for tournament standouts Terry Tata Mallin, crowned both Best Opposite and Most Valuable Player, continuing her MVP streak against top sides and Milka Akinyi, honoured as Best Outside Hitter for her consistency and brilliance.
“Hats off, champions! You’ve made the nation proud and proven once again that Kenya shines brightest when we stand together,” Ruto added.
With the African crown in hand and a world championship on the horizon, Kenya’s Junior Malkia Strikers have sent a clear message: their journey is just beginning.
For the Individual awards, the Best Outside Hitter was won by Elhenawy Farah of Egypt. Best Outside Hitter: Milka Akinyi of Keya. Best Blocker Ouita Isabel of Cameroon.
The Best Middle Blocker award was won by Mballa Njang Donatella of Cameroon. Best Setter: Ottou Mebenga of Cameroon. Best Defence: Elazhary Farah of Egypt, and the MVP: Malyne Idachi of Kenya.
Both sides have secured their tickets to the 2026 FIVB U-20 World Championship, but Monday’s victory gives Kenya its third appearance at the global event, while Cameroon will make its debut on the world stage. Egypt, eight-time African champions, joined them after defeating Senegal 3–1 to claim the bronze medal.
