Kenya’s Jannet Wanja
This event brings to the fore the perennial rivalry between Kenya (hosts and defending champions), Algeria (Africa’s representatives at the London Olympics) as well as powerhouses Cameroon, Tunisia and Egypt. Senegal, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia and Gabon are also expected to take part in the event.
Tunisia, who produced some of the finest women’s national and club sides in the 90s are not taking any chances. They jetted in last Wednesday to afford themselves ample acclimatisation time.
Cameroon, who spoilt the party for Kenya at the 2011 All Africa Games by beating them in the semi-finals arrived Wednesday evening while the Democratic Republic of Congo and Senegal were expected to jet in on Thursday.
Nyaberi expressed KVF’s disappointment at the last-minute withdrawal of Uganda and Botswana who had earlier on given indications of taking part in the tournament.
Kenya has named a 12 person squad for the championships. National coach, David “Demosh” Lung’ahu named national captain, Bracksides Agala to head the team. Others in the squad are: Diana Khisa, Jane Wacu, Everlyne Makuto, Elizabeth Nafula and Mercy Moim (all from Kenya Prisons), Janet Wanja, Violet Makuto, Esther Wangeci, Monica Biama, Ruth Chepng’etich (all from Kenya Pipeline) and Gaudencia Makokha (Nairobi Water).
“The team is a perfect blend of experience and new youth talent,” said Nyaberi while exuding confidence that the squad will, once again, come through for Kenya.
The senior team has been training together with the national Under-23 outfit that is preparing for the World Under-23 Championships in Tijuana, Mexico.
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