The Nairobi Water Handball Team, “The Nairobi Water Queens”, has reclaimed their status as the premier women’s handball club in East and Central Africa.
The team triumphed as women’s champions at the 43rd Edition of the East and Central Africa Handball Club Championships (ECAHF), held at the Old Kampala Arena in Kampala, Uganda.
In a display of grit and tactical brilliance, the Queens powered through the knockout rounds. They dominated the semi-finals against Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF), leading 21-8 at half-time and securing a 35-23 victory.
The final against Uganda Prisons was a hard-fought battle, with Nairobi Water ahead 17-12 at the break before closing out a convincing 33-24 win to lift the trophy.
This victory signals a triumphant return for the Queens, who had dominated the regional scene with a decade of consecutive titles before a narrow defeat in last year’s final.
Their resurgence highlights the team’s unwavering commitment, blending unyielding defense, sharp offensive plays, and seamless coordination that captivated fans and earned plaudits from rivals.
During the trophy presentation ceremony, Acting Managing Director Martin Nang’ole lauded the team’s stellar performance, extending special praise to Head Coach Jack Herbert, Team Manager Caroline Kusa, Team Captain Gladys Chilo, and Assistant Coach Thodosia Sangoro.
“You have done Nairobi Water proud,” said Mr. Nang’ole.
“You have once again proven yourselves to be a powerhouse in East and Central African handball. We expect the same zeal, commitment, and teamwork demonstrated in this tournament to inspire our ongoing mission to deliver world-class water and sewerage services to the people of Nairobi.”
Head Coach Jack Herbert credited the success to the squad’s holistic preparation and adaptability: “Throughout the competition, Nairobi Water displayed a thrilling blend of relentless defense, efficient scoring, and disciplined coordination. Each match showcased the players’ resilience and tactical prowess, earning admiration from fans and respect from opponents across the region.”
The East and Central Africa Handball Club Championships, organized by the East and Central Africa Handball Federation (ECAHF), is the region’s flagship annual club tournament.
The 43rd edition featured elite clubs from Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, South Sudan, and Burundi, competing in separate men’s and women’s categories.
Rwanda Police claimed the men’s title, while Nairobi Water’s win in the women’s division underscores the growing strength of Kenyan handball and the value of corporate-backed sports initiatives.
Nairobi Water’s achievement not only celebrates athletic excellence but also aligns with the company’s dedication to community empowerment and sustainable development through sports.
By Joseph Ng’ang’a
