All set for Africa Aquatics Zone III Championships at Kasarani

President William Ruto is expected to grace the swimming continental showdown in Kasarani, which is recognized as the most prestigious aquatic event in East and Central Africa.

It has attracted over 15 nations, including Nigeria, Benin, Burundi, Somalia, Sudan, Eritrea, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Zimbabwe. More confirmations are expected in the coming weeks, promising one of the largest gatherings of swimming talent ever seen on Kenyan soil.

President Ruto's presence will underline Kenya’s growing commitment to sports as a unifying and transformative force.

For the athletes, it will be a historic opportunity to perform before the Head of State, and for the sport itself, a moment that signals aquatics is stepping into the national spotlight alongside athletics, football, and rugby.

The championships will also be graced by Dr. Diop Mohammed, President of Africa Aquatics, together with continental dignitaries, ambassadors, special envoys and leaders in global swimming, giving the event true international flavor.

The championship comes on the heels of Kenya’s successful hosting of CHAN 2025, where President Ruto rallied the nation behind football. The swimming fraternity now aims to ride on that same wave of national excitement.

Speaking to the media, Hussein Mohammed, President of the Football Kenya Federation, assured full support:

“We are ready to work closely with our brothers and sisters in swimming to ensure they stage a spectacular championship, just like we did with CHAN. We will do it again for the nation and for our younger athletes. We thank President William Ruto for enabling sports transformation through infrastructure and athlete welfare.”

“This is a defining moment for Kenyan swimming,” said Heize Kahindo, Chairperson of the Local Organizing Committee and Executive Committee Member of Kenya Aquatics. “Hosting Zone 3 is about putting Kenya on the map, showing the world our readiness, and giving our swimmers a chance to shine before their home fans. We urge Kenyans from all walks of life to come and fill Kasarani. Our athletes need your voices — your cheers will push them to greatness.”

Organisers uaranteed tight security, ample parking, and a lively atmosphere throughout the four days.

Kenya Aquatics has set reasonable entry fee ensuring accessibility and affordability for families, students, and sports lovers eager to witness this continental spectacle.

The event is a gateway to international recognition, with opportunities for athletes to qualify for upcoming global meets such as the World Aquatics Championships, Africa Youth Games, and Commonwealth Games.

Kenya will proudly showcase some of its finest talent. Among those expected to light up the pool are: Aariana Barchha (UK-based), Neo Olengo and Marion Alala (South Africa-based), Stephen Ndegwa, Nadia Vusha, Kamwele Maina, Macrine Kalombo, Duini Caffini, Audrey Chebet, Victoria Okumu, Don Ndirangu, Tevin Waweru, Victor Okech, Igbaal Bayusuf, Johari Masinde, Nathan Matimu, and Vahkeinah Leboy.

Kenya will field two national teams (A and B), coached by Abdulmalik and Monica Githinji, as well as a masters team, featuring big names like Omar Ali Omari, Gideon Kioko, Su Kahumbu, Jacqueline Macharia, Nasser Motha, Leland Salano, and Wanja Michuki.

For these athletes, competing in front of a home crowd — and possibly the Head of State — will be a once-in-a-lifetime moment of pride.

The Local Organizing Committee has opened doors for corporate sponsorships and partnerships, positioning the championships as a golden opportunity for businesses.

“With thousands of spectators, dignitaries, and media coverage expected, the Zone 3 Championships provide unmatched visibility for any brand,” Kahindo explained. “This is more than corporate social responsibility — it is marketing at its finest, while also helping to build the dreams of young Kenyan athletes.”

Beyond the pool, the event will be a celebration of national pride and unity. While Kenya is globally known for its track and field dominance, aquatics has steadily gained ground. Hosting this event sends a clear message — Kenya is diversifying its sporting heritage and embracing new opportunities.

Fans should brace for four days of thrills, intense rivalries, and unforgettable finishes as Africa’s best battle for glory. The Kasarani Aquatic Stadium, recently upgraded to meet international standards, will serve as the perfect stage for record-breaking performances and historic achievements.

“This is more than swimming,” Kahindo emphasized. “It is about unity, pride, and the spirit of Africa. We are ready. Our swimmers are ready.

"Now it is time for Kenya to show the world what we can do, both in and out of the water.”