The Kenyan water rafting team is set to represent both Kenya and the African continent at the World Rafting Championships scheduled to take place in Argentina in November 2025.
Speaking during a training session at River Sagana, National Team Manager Sammy Kanyuria said the team is well-prepared and eager to fly the country’s flag high on the global stage.
Kanyuria noted that Kenya earned qualification for the world championships after being crowned African champions during the African Water Rafting Championship held in Sagana in July 2025.
“We are the African champions, and we are heading to Argentina to represent the entire continent,” said Kanyuria.
He added that the team has been training consistently along River Sagana, which has enabled the athletes to adapt to diverse water conditions ahead of the upcoming global event.
“One of the challenges we expect is that the rivers in Argentina will be much colder than what we are used to. However, we are confident the team is ready for the challenge,” he said.
Kanyuria revealed that Kenya will field both men’s and women’s teams, who will compete in Downriver, RX, and Slalom categories at the championships, scheduled for November 3 to 9, 2025.
He further appealed for efforts to conserve the environment and protect riparian land, noting that such sports depend on healthy ecosystems.
“As the Kenya Rafting Federation, we urge Kenyans, especially those living along rivers, to conserve the environment. Protecting our rivers ensures that young men and women can earn a living through sports and sports tourism,” he said.
Team Coach Julius Kahuria expressed confidence in the team’s readiness, saying, “My team has been training daily. They are ready, focused, and determined to bring trophies home.”
Women’s Team Captain Wambui Kariuki acknowledged the challenges faced by women in sports but affirmed their determination to excel.
“We are ready for Argentina. We have mastered the currents and are capable of competing with the best,” she said.
By Purity Mugo
