The Junior Malkia Strikers, our talented Under-20 women’s team, have pulled off an incredible feat, beating host nation Cameroon 3-1 in the final of the 2025 U-20 African Nations Volleyball Championship.
The match, which took place on Monday at the packed Yaoundé Multipurpose Sports Complex, ended with Kenya clinching the title 26-24, 19-25, 28-26, 25-16, and earning a spot in the 2026 FIVB U-20 Women’s World Championship.
It’s the first time for the team to lift the trophy, making the country filled with pride.
It wasn’t an easy road, mind you. Earlier in the tournament, Cameroon had handed the Strikers a 3-1 defeat during the group stages, so this victory felt like sweet revenge.
Coach Jackline Barasa deserves a shoutout for rallying the team, turning things around against a home crowd cheering for the opposition.
The girls showed real grit, with every point feeling like a battle. Terry Tata Mallin, who was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player and Best Opposite, was a force to reckon with, powering through attacks even after nursing an ankle injury.
Milka Akinyi also stole the show, earning Best Outside Hitter for her electric plays that kept the crowd on edge.
President William Ruto congratulated the players for their remarkable performance, noting their unity and determination throughout the tournament.
“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 U20 Championship last night in Yaoundé.
“From the football pitch to the volleyball court, our athletes are showing the continent what unity, talent, and resilience can achieve,” he said.
Ruto also singled out top performers, commending their outstanding individual contributions to the team’s success.
“Special applause to Terry Tata Mallin, crowned both Best Opposite and Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament, adding to her MVP streak from four matches against Egypt, Senegal, Burundi, and Uganda.
“And to Milka Akinyi, our Best Outside Hitter, for her brilliance and consistency throughout the championship,” he added.
Ruto further described the victory as an inspiration to young athletes across the country, emphasising the values of perseverance and teamwork.
“This emphatic triumph is a testament to resilience, skill, and an unshakable fighting spirit, one that inspires a new generation of volleyball stars across Kenya.
“Hats off, champions! You’ve made the nation proud and proven once again that Kenya shines brightest when we stand together,” he concluded.
