Kenya’s cadet wrestlers will headline the national team to the African Championships slated for April 27 to May 5 in Alexandria, Egypt, with several young athletes returning to defend medals won in previous competitions.

Composed largely of 16- and 17-year-olds earmarked for the Youth Olympics in Dakar later this year, the squad announced on April 17, reflects a deliberate focus on youth development.

Kenya Amateur Wrestling Association (KAWA) Secretary General Erick Walucho said the selection blends experience and emerging talent. “This team represents the future of Kenyan wrestling,” he said.

In the female cadet category, Jemimah Nakhumicha (65kgs), Janet Ingwesi (69kgs), Joy Lichuma (57kgs), and Joy Shalyng (49kgs) will all be defending medals won at the 2025 African Championships in Casablanca, Morocco. Competing in the 70 kilogrammes category, Nancy Sophia is among the first-time entrants at this level despite her strong trajectory.

The male cadet lineup includes Clinton Omari (51kgs), Galfin Wangira (59kgs), Dan Kegode (60kgs), Vincent Waweru (65kgs) and Calvin Nyatuka (70kgs). Omari will defend two bronze medals earned at the 2025 African School Games in Annaba, Algeria, while Wangira is a first-time competitor.

At the junior level, Kenya will field Faith Wamalwa (68kgs) and Dyvonter Ashly (62kgs), both of whom also double up in the senior women’s category alongside Sintia Nakhumicha (57kgs), another debutant at this stage.

The senior men’s team comprises Kenneth Koech (70kgs), Mahabila Mathayo (70kgs) and Joel Tukai (125kgs).

Walucho emphasized the broader goal: “Beyond medals, this championship is critical preparation for Dakar Games. We are building a disciplined, competitive pipeline for Kenya’s wrestling future.”