Yaounde , August 13, 2025 – The Europe Today: Kenya’s national women’s Under-20 volleyball team clinched their maiden African Championships title with a spirited 3–1 victory over hosts Cameroon on Monday, August 11, 2025, at the Yaounde Sports Complex.
Guided by head coach Jackline Barasa, the Junior Malkia Strikers overcame the host nation and its home crowd advantage to secure the historic win. The Kenyans edged the first set 26–24, before Cameroon responded strongly to take the second 25–19. Barasa’s side regained momentum in the third set with a tight 28–26 triumph, and sealed the championship with a commanding 25–16 win in the fourth.
The victory not only avenged their earlier 3–1 group-stage loss to Cameroon but also earned the Kenyans a spot at the World Championships in Surabaya, Indonesia. Kenya had booked their place in the final by defeating Egypt 3–0 in the semifinals, while Cameroon advanced after a straight-sets win over Senegal.
“We played well, but our opponents looked scared of us,” Barasa said after the match. “Despite losing to them in the preliminary round, we controlled the game and won our maiden title with minimal difficulties.”
Kenya Volleyball Federation Deputy President Paul Bitok hailed the achievement, noting that the juniors had matched the success of their senior counterparts, who secured their 10th continental crown last year. “We are proud of our junior team for winning their first-ever African title and massively qualifying for the World Championship,” Bitok said.
Kenya’s Malyne “Terry” Tata Idachi was named Most Valuable Player of the tournament for her exceptional performance. In the bronze medal match, Egypt swept Senegal 3–0 (25–12, 25–05, 25–19) to finish third.
