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Aliwa targets rhythm, cohesion as Kenya eyes AFCON glory

Training resumes next month as national teams shift focus from past glory to fresh battles ahead.

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by CHARLENE MALWA

Sports31 October 2025 - 05:08
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In Summary


  • Aliwa believes the early and continuous structure will give the team the rhythm and cohesion needed ahead of next year’s Africa Cup of Nations. 
  • He noted that the 2023 silver medal finish in Accra proved Kenya’s competitiveness but consistency and exposure remain the missing link in matching top African sides like Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco, and Cameroon.
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Wafalme Strkers' head coach Elisha Aliwa/HANDOUT

Kenya men’s volleyball head coach Elisha Aliwa believes a structured and consistent approach will be vital as the men’s and women’s national teams prepare for next year’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

Aliwa said they are entering a crucial phase of preparation, boosted by a Sh15 million sponsorship from Mozzart Bet, which now extends to the men’s side. The support marks a turning point for the team’s training and organisation, allowing regular sessions and improved conditioning.

“Training will commence next week and extend to every other weekend whenever the league is on break,” he said.

Discipline, physical readiness and team chemistry will be key ingredients to improving Kenya’s continental standing. The team, Aliwa said, will make full use of off-weekends to refine their techniques and rebuild synergy among players who have been apart during the league.

“We must use the off-weeks to build fitness, sharpen our serves and reception and increase bonding time to allow the team gel fast,” he said.

Aliwa observed that Kenya’s 2023 silver medal in Accra, Ghana, was proof of the team’s competitiveness and a reminder of the work required to match Africa’s elite sides such as Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco and Cameroon.

Structured preparation and consistent exposure will close that gap.

“This time, we’ll have more time to correct our basics and play with intent. It’s about staying together longer and giving young players the confidence to rise to the occasion,” he said.

Captain Brian Kamonde echoed the coach’s optimism, saying that increased resources will help sustain training camps and strengthen their challenge for the continental title.

“Having a sponsor on board will help us stay more in camp and focus on our weaknesses. Our target is the AFCON title and building teamwork is my role as captain,” he said.

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