Kenyan side KCB Volleyball Queens have unveiled a star-studded squad as they prepare to fly to Cairo, Egypt, tomorrow morning for the 2026 CAVB African Women’s Club Championship, scheduled to run from 11 to 24 April.
A delegation of 14 players, accompanied by the technical team, will represent the club at the continental showdown. The team comprises Mercy Moim, Juliana Namutira, Sharleen Maywa, Deborah Jesang, Belinda Barasa, Mildred Cherop, Pauline Chemtai, Sharon Serem, Lincy Jeruto, Josephine Kataa, Josephine Wafula, Malyne Terry, Esther Mutinda, and Fridah Boke.
The technical bench supporting the squad comprises Head Coach Japheth Munala, Assistant Coach David Kinga, Technical Director Paul Bitok, Team Manager Marvin Tuikong, Team Doctor Simon Kibe, Strength and Conditioning Coach Esau Otieno, and trainer Eunice Mayo.
Speaking during the team’s flag-off ceremony, KCB Group Director, Marketing and Communication, Rosalind Gichuru said: “This championship provides a vital continental platform for our players to showcase their talent, compete at the highest level, and position Kenya as a powerhouse in African volleyball. As KCB, we remain committed to supporting sports excellence and giving our athletes opportunities to shine beyond our borders.”
The former continental champions will be looking to bounce back strongly after finishing fifth in last year’s edition. KCB, who lifted the African title in 2006 and again in 2022, head into the tournament determined to reclaim their place among the continent’s elite.
A total of 24 teams from 14 countries will compete during this year’s competition, with top clubs such as defending champions Zamalek SC, Al Ahly SC, and Alexandria SC from Egypt confirmed. Kenya will be well represented by KCB, Kenya Pipeline, and DCI, underlining the country’s growing dominance in African women’s volleyball.
The Bankers will be boosted by the return of Kenyan international Esther Mutinda. The arrival of libero Josphine Kataa adds depth in defence, while middle blocker Mildred Cherop rejoins the team after a one-year stint in the UAE. However, the team will miss the services of Captain Edith Wisa, who is unavailable due to personal reasons.
“We have had good preparations, and the players are motivated heading into this tournament. The competition will be tough, but we are ready to give our best and fight for a strong finish,” noted Assistant Coach, David Kinga.
On the local scene, KCB has been in solid form. The team is currently preparing for a Kenya Cup quarterfinal clash against Kenya Defence Forces after the continental showdown. In the national league standings, KCB sits fourth with 10 points, trailing DCI, Post Bank, and Kenya Prisons.
