Uganda won the continental with 3933 points, with Kenya finishing second with 3572. Tanzania completed the podium with 3270 in the event, which attracted 10 nations. By virtue of winning the title, Uganda secured the hosting rights for the 2026 edition.
Uganda women led with 1802 points, followed by Kenya (1661) and Tanzania (1417). Their men’s side dominated with 1991 points, ahead of Kenya (1759) and Tanzania (1721), results that secured Uganda’s overall crown.
Kenya’s Don Ndirangu starred for the hosts, winning the 50m butterfly in 28.14 seconds and the 100m freestyle in 1:03.36, ahead of Uganda’s Elijah Ayesiga and teammate Abdulkadir.
Kenya impressed in the Masters division, leading both men’s and women’s categories. The Kenyan women’s masters team topped with 1102 points, followed by Uganda (662), while the men’s masters took gold with 961 points ahead of Uganda (767) and Tanzania (350).
In the combined masters, Kenya maintained first place with 2063 points, with Uganda second on 1429 and Tanzania third on 350, underlining the hosts’ strength in the senior ranks.
Kenya Aquatics Secretary General, Marigi Collins, praised the growing standards across the region. “This championship showcased the strength of East and Central African aquatics,” he said.
“We saw new records, new nations joining, and rising standards among young swimmers. Uganda’s win shows how competitive the region has become, and for Kenya, we take pride in our Masters’ performance and medal consistency.”
Kenya assistant coach Mansour Abadallah of Bandari Swim Club praised the swimmers’ effort and improvement.
“I’m grateful for our swimmers. They’ve shown real growth compared to past years,” he said. “It’s all about discipline, commitment, and teamwork. We’ll build on this experience and aim higher.”
Somali also made history as they fielded their first female swimmer, Aya Ofleh Adams, in the competition. She clocked 3:11.36 in the 200m backstroke, 50.27 in the 50m breaststroke, 1:31.05 in the 100m butterfly, and 39.45 in the 50m backstroke.
“I’m so happy to have participated. Being the first Somali female swimmer to make a breakthrough in aquatics,” Aya said. “I look forward to better performance in the coming days.”
Local Organising Committee Chair Heize Kahindo hailed the fans, the government, and the sponsors for their support.
“Fans came in large numbers to cheer their teams, and that energy was amazing,” Kahindo said.
“To the Kenyan government, especially the Ministry of Sports, your contribution won’t go unappreciated. You guaranteed us the venue and made this event possible.”
After the competition, Team Kenya now turns their focus to the Africa Aquatics Open Water Championships set for October 21 in Mombasa, aiming to build on their strong home performance.
