Malkia Strikers beat Zambia 3-0 in title defense

Kenya's women's volleyball team, Malkia Strikers, secured a convincing 3-0 victory over Zambia in their title defense at the 2026 CAVB Women's African Nations Volleyball Championship. The electrifying match, officially opened by Principal Secretary for the State Department of Sports Elijah Mwangi, took place at Kasarani indoor arena in Nairobi.

Kenya's head coach, Geoffrey Omondi, fielded Marian Sokoiyo and Lorine Chebet in the middle block, with Esther Mutinda as the setter, Daisy Leting and Milka Akinyi at the outside hitting positions, and Mercy Iminza and Josephine Kataa as libero and opposite players, respectively.

Zambia struggled to make an impact with poor services and weak attacks, giving Kenya an early 1-7 lead. However, Kenya capitalized on these weaknesses to extend their lead to 16-8 before closing out the set 25-14. In the second set, Kenya took control again, leading 10-1, and refreshed their roster by bringing in Emmaculate Nekesa, Veronica Adhiambo, Meldina Sande, Gladys Ekaru, Marlene Tata, and Sharon "Shakokhala" Arusei.

Kenya's relentless attacks and efficient serves saw them extend their lead to 16-3, 21-5, and finally secure the set 25-9.

In the final set, middle blocker Belinda Barasa replaced Sokoiyo as Malkia Strikers continued their onslaught, maintaining a 7-3, 14-5, and 20-10 lead, before clinching the match with a 25-11 victory. After the match, coach Omondi praised the team for beginning the championship with a win and encouraged fans to support them further in their upcoming tie against Mali on Thursday. Malkia Strikers captain Meldina Sande echoed her coach's sentiments, urging fans to turn up in large numbers for their next match.