Kenyan junior stars fired up for African athletics showpiece in Nigeria
Team Kenya will head to Abeokuta, Nigeria, this week for the Africa U18 and U20 Athletics Championships, with confidence high and medal ambitions clear after a well-organised send-off at Kasarani.
Team Kenya will leave for Abeokuta, Nigeria, this week brimming with confidence ahead of the 3rd edition of the CAA Africa U18 and U20 Combined Athletics Championships, scheduled for July 16 to 20, 2025.
The 47-member squad was officially kitted out on Sunday at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, by Athletics Kenya Youth Committee Chairman Barnaba Korir. Korir assured the athletes of full logistical and moral support, noting that preparations had been smooth and meticulous.
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Joyline Jepkemoi, the 2023 Africa U18 1,500m bronze medallist, is among the top medal prospects. She’s optimistic about upgrading her performance this year after what she described as a productive training camp.
“Last Africa, I went to the Africa Championship in 2023. I was in third position and won a bronze medal. This year, with the help of God and focus, I won a gold medal,” said Jepkemoi. “My team has trained well and we have not had any indiscipline cases. Everyone was disciplined and focused on their work.”
Team captain Clinton Aluvi, who will feature in both the 100m and 200m, praised the coaching staff for sharpening their skills and expressed belief in his potential.
“The coaches have helped us a lot. At least in the sprints, we have improved a lot. When I come here, I know that I’ve made improvements. I know that I can bring good medals from Nigeria. My target is gold, and if it goes too far, maybe gold will become silver,” said Aluvi.
Korir, speaking after overseeing the team’s final briefing, emphasised the federation’s efforts in ensuring age eligibility and readiness.
“I don't expect any issues concerning age problems. We have done a very good job as a federation to ensure that those who are going to compete are of the right age,” said Korir. “The equipment, especially the spikes, were brought yesterday from the US with Nike support. The allowances have already been given by Athletics Kenya, and the government will handle the rest.”
He also praised the coordination between the federation and other stakeholders, including the Ministry of Sports and sponsors.
Team Kenya's preparations have been under the watchful eye of Head Coach Robert Ngisirei, who said the athletes are both technically prepared and mentally focused.
Sprint star Ferdinand Omanyala and former World U20 team captain from the 2016 Bydgoszcz Championships visited the squad to offer encouragement. They urged the young athletes to remain focused on their careers and education as they prepare to take on the continent’s best.
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