Kenya clinched the Africa Kabaddi 2024 Championship title on Saturday evening, overcoming Uganda with a decisive 44-23 victory in the final match held at Kasarani.
Kenya set the tone early in the match, with James Kamweti leading the charge. Kamweti’s skillful raids in Uganda’s half secured a strong lead for Kenya, concluding the first half with a score of 20-13. The second half saw Kenya’s team performance elevate to another level, adding an impressive 24 points to their tally while restricting Uganda to just 10 points. The final score of 44-23 highlighted Kenya’s dominance throughout the match.
Kenya’s defence was particularly formidable, with Ugandan raiders consistently thwarted by the home team’s superb tackles. This impenetrable defence ensured that Kenya maintained their lead and kept the pressure on Uganda throughout the game.
The victory not only secured Kenya’s place as the champions of Africa but also guaranteed their participation in the upcoming Kabaddi World Cup. James Kamweti, who was named man of the match for his outstanding performance, expressed confidence in Kenya’s status as African giants in Kabaddi. “We are looking forward to meeting big teams like India and Iran because in Africa we are the giants,” Kamweti stated confidently.
Kenya’s captain, David Silishia, praised the team for their collective effort and dedication. “We are happy and we thank God for the win. It was a good team performance and we have gotten the results. We have a very good team. With proper support, we can do better at the World Cup,” he said, reflecting the team’s optimism and ambition for future success.
Adding to the individual accolades, Kenyan Samuel Wafula was named the best defender of the tournament, underscoring the strength and depth of the Kenyan squad.
Kenya’s triumph in the Africa Kabaddi Championship is part of their growing prominence on the global Kabaddi stage. This victory follows their recent achievement of securing the bronze medal at the Bangabandhu Cup in Bangladesh, further showcasing Kenya’s rising status in the international Kabaddi community.
As Kenya looks ahead to the World Cup, the team’s performance in the Africa Kabaddi Championship serves as a strong testament to their potential and ambition. With continued support and dedication, Kenya is poised to make a significant impact on the global Kabaddi scene.