A cash strapped Kenya women’s volleyball team flew out toYaounde, Cameroon yesterday for the African Olympic Games qualifiers.
Kenya Volleyball Federation vice chairman Martin Makokha confirmed the federation had to take a loan to purchase air tickets for the travelling delegation.
The official added the state of accommodation of the delegation in Cameroon remains unknown as the team did not carry any money.
“We are grateful to the teams title sponsor-National Oil Corporation who have made it possible for the team to train in a conducive environment spending over Sh4.5million,” Makokha said.
He added, “It’s sad that a team like this which has brought glory to the nation can leave the country in such a state. Communication from the Cameroon volleyball federation indicated the team had to pay for their accommodation prior to the start of qualifiers tomorrow.”
Makokha, revealed however Sports Ministry officials have promised to avail cash today.
“Our prayer now is that the ministry comes through for our team tomorrow (today) so that we cable the money to the delegation in Cameroon,” he added.
Meanwhile, France-based player Evelyne Makuto has warned her team mates not to underrate any team in Cameroon.
The left attacker said all participating teams pose a great challenge.
Kenya desires to play in the Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Olympic Games this August. They last featured in an Olympic Games in Athens in 2004 .
“Every team will be out to get the sole ticket to Brazil in Cameroon. We must give every match the seriousness it deserves. We have a good squad and we hope for the best,” said Makuto who is attached to club Chamelieres alongside team mate Jane Wacu.
“Cameroon are the hosts and they performed well during last year’s All Africa Games. We can expect a real battle from them. The same case applies with champions Algeria, Egypt and Tunisia. We are going to put our best foot forward in Yaounde and hopefully, at the end of the day, we will emerge the winners.”