Kenya’s Hit Squad ready for golden harvest at Africa Zone 3 finals

Elizabeth Andiego with Sheila Auma and Amina Martha/HANDOUT

Kasarani Indoor Arena is set for a historic showdown as Kenya’s Hit Squad step into the finals of the Africa Zone III Boxing Championships.

After a week of gruelling bouts, nine Kenyan boxers have advanced to gold medal matches.

Veteran Elizabeth Andiego will compete in the women’s middleweight (70–75kg) final against Congo’s Mwamba Lulua. At 38, Andiego has become a mentor to younger fighters and a pillar of experience for the squad.

“This gold is personal. I’ve been here before, close but not close enough. This time, I’m finishing on top — for every young girl who believes she belongs in the ring,” she said.

Rising star Faith Nafuna, 21, will take on DR Congo’s Nyembo Muamba in the women’s flyweight (50–52kg) final. Nafula has impressed throughout the tournament with composure and precise timing.

“We are writing history. It’s not fear I feel — it’s fire. I want to hear our anthem and see our flag raised,” Nafuna said.

“Carrying my country in every punch motivates me more than anything.” In the Women’s Bantamweight (52–54kg) final, Veronica Mbithe faces Amina Martha.

“I’ve trained hard for this moment. Today, I fight not just for me, but for every Kenyan girl who dreams big,” she said.

Emily Juma, in the women’s light (57–60kg) final against Munga Zalia, said, “This is the culmination of years of sweat and sacrifice. I’m ready to give everything in the ring.”

Cynthia Mwai, contesting women’s light welterweight (60–63kg) final against COD’s Mbalayi Mbamba, added, “Every punch tonight counts. I carry my team and my country with me.”

Nakalama Emily, facing Salma Yahya in the women’s welterweight (63–68kg) final, said, “I’ve envisioned this fight a thousand times. Tonight, that vision becomes reality.” The men’s division features several key finals.

Boniface “The Hummer” Mogunde faces teammate Alvine Oduor in an all-Kenyan light middleweight (67–71kg) final.

“We fight as brothers, but in that ring, you have to prove who wants it more. When the bell rings, it’s not about friendship. It’s about flag, fire, and finish,” Mogunde said. Oduor reflected the same determination.

“Facing a teammate is tough, but our goal is the same — gold for Kenya. I’m ready to give my all,” he said. Peter Abuti will meet Uganda’s Abdoulaziz Ringo in the heavyweight (86–92kg) final.

“There are no shortcuts to gold. Every round I’ve fought was a step toward this one. Tonight, there’s no turning back,” Abuti said.

“When I hear the crowd rise, I know it’s time. That sound gives you wings.”

Situs Onyango will contest the men’s light fly (46–48kg) final against COD’s Mayala Tsimba. I’ve trained my mind as much as my body. Tonight, focus wins fights."