Kiambu Aquatics Championship delivers electrifying contest as Africa Swimming tourney beckons

The gala, sanctioned by Kenya Aquatics, marked the second leg of the Kiambu Aquatics Swimming League 2025–2026 and set the stage for Kiambu Aquatics Level two and December’s national championships in Mombasa.

The atmosphere was electric as some of the country’s most recognized institutions sent their top talent to the water.

Orca, Supermarlins, Aga Khan Academy, Aqua Shark Fin, Genesis Sports, Pioneer Swimming Team, Visa Dolphin Swim Club, Crawford, Potterhouse, Woodcreek, Braeburn, Goldfish, and Mombasa Aquatics were among the names that stood out on the entry lists.

The competition carried with it the flavor of old rivalries and the promise of new stars.

One of the brightest performances came from John Ndung’u, 18, of Goldfish Nanyuki, who spoke with the composure of an athlete hungry for progress.

“I really enjoyed the first day because I finally found my match,” he said after a series of strong swims.

With guidance from his coach, Saumu Ally, Ndung’u now sharpens his focus on advancing through Level Two and ultimately qualifying for the national championship in Mombasa.

For Ethan Kibunja, 9, of Orca Swim Club, the gala was one to remember. He impressed in the pool, taking gold in the 100m freestyle before contesting and leading in other strokes. Beaming with delight afterward, he said: “The middle distance events are becoming my favorite, and I’m excited to keep improving.”

His gold medal brought one of the loudest cheers of the day from teammates and spectators.

The championship also provided a platform for coaches to measure progress. Joseph Waweru, representing Still I Rise International School, made his gala debut and praised the event’s technical improvements.

“I’m impressed by the advanced technology in timing and officiating. It’s a joy to see my swimmers compete fairly. My goal is to help them reach national and international levels,” he remarked.

His comments highlighted the introduction of the System 7 timing system, which placed Kiambu firmly in line with international standards of accuracy and fairness.

The investment underscored the seriousness with which county-based leagues are embracing professional organization.

The championship drew the attention of Collins Marigiri, Secretary General of Kenya Aquatics, who commended Kiambu Aquatics for the strides made in both organization and technology.

“Kiambu Aquatics has stepped up impressively, especially with the adoption of System 7 timing. The national federation is committed to collaborating with counties and clubs to strengthen the development of swimming across Kenya,” Marigiri emphasized.

He also turned attention to the 10th Africa Zone III Championship, scheduled for October 16–19 at the Kasarani Aquatic Stadium.

He called upon the public  to turn out in large numbers and support the local athletes. With more than 15 nations expected, the continental event promises to be a stern test for Kenya’s swimmers and a showcase of East Africa’s growing stature in the sport.

The Kiambu Aquatics Level One Championship concludes Sunday, September 21, with final heats and medal ceremonies to crown a weekend of high drama in the water.

For many of the young competitors, this gala was not only about medals but about charting a path through Level Two and eventually onto the national stage in December.

In a country where athletics has long reigned supreme, the growing energy around swimming is unmistakable. Kiambu’s success in staging a polished and competitive event reflects a broader momentum.

Whether Kenya can translate these efforts into continental and global breakthroughs remains to be seen, but the waters at the M-PESA Foundation Academy suggested that the tide is indeed turning.