Kenya's beach handball dream put on hold despite rising success

This rise has been highlighted by two historic silver medals in 2023 and 2025, achievements that positioned Kenya on the brink of qualifying for the World Championship.

Since December 2025, during the Youth African Games in Angola, the national team has been in continuous training, including a one-month residential camp in Nyali, Mombasa, demonstrating strong commitment and readiness for the next level.

However, that momentum has been put on the back burner. Kenya will not participate in the upcoming Africa Nations Cup in Lomé, Togo—a key World Championship qualifier—after the Ministry of Sports confirmed it would not fund the trip due to late submission of the request.

“We commend your efforts in promoting the sport of beach handball and appreciate your commitment to its growth and development.

“However, in line with the established funding criteria we regret to inform you that the Ministry will not be in a position to support your request at this time due to the short notice provided,” the Ministry of Sports said in a response to the Kenya Handball Federation’s funding request.

“Further, we advise that your future requests be submitted at least three (3) months prior to the tournament date to allow for adequate review, rationalisation and consideration.

“The Ministry looks forward to the possibility of collaborating with you in future programmes.”

The absence is a significant setback as it denies Kenya a chance to build on its recent success and delays a long-pursued dream for players who have invested months of sacrifice and preparation.

Despite the disappointment, the Beach Handball Commission Chairperson Caroline Nyadiero has urged players to remain focused, emphasizing that this is only a pause—not the end.

“With proven success, growing talent, and resilience, Kenya’s beach handball future remains promising. I urge the players not to lose focus as we look forward for other championships in future,” she said.

The message is clear: with better planning and support, the next chapter could still be written in gold.