By Peter John

The KCB Volleyball Club is confident of mounting a strong challenge at the upcoming Women’s African Clubs Championship set for April 11–24 in Cairo, Egypt.

Technical director and Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) acting president Paul Bitok believes the team has assembled a formidable squad capable of competing with Africa’s best.

KCB will be seeking to reclaim the continental title they last won in 2022 in Tunisia, where they ended a decade-long drought with a 3-1 victory over Egyptian giants Al Ahly Women’s Volleyball Team.

However, the bankers have since struggled to return to the podium, finishing outside the medal bracket in subsequent editions.

Bitok, a former Malkia Strikers head coach, says the team has undergone significant evolution, blending experience with emerging talent.

“The final squad comprises notable stars such as Esther Mutinda, who has returned to represent KCB and team Kenya, so the team is bound to deliver their best,” he said.

Tough competition awaits

KCB face a stern test in Cairo, where they will come up against strong Egyptian opposition, including record holders Al Ahly Women’s Volleyball Team and defending champions Zamalek Women’s Volleyball Team, who are chasing a fourth consecutive title on home soil.

The Kenyan side will also renew their rivalry with domestic champions Kenya Pipeline Volleyball Club, who are eager to end a 20-year continental title drought. Debutants DCI Volleyball Club will also represent the country.

Team captain Mercy Moim expressed confidence in their preparations, noting that the team has studied their opponents closely.

“We have been watching the Egyptian teams’ games, we have analysed them and we have the right strategy to ensure we secure victory against them,” she said.

Youthful boost and renewed ambition

The squad will also be boosted by the inclusion of rising star Mayline Terry, who was named Most Valuable Player at the 2025 Under-20 Championship. Terry made her debut at last year’s African Club Championship, where KCB finished fifth.

“Last year was my first year at the Africa championships but this year I am headed to Cairo with more experience,” she said.

Terry is optimistic about the team’s chances, adding: “This year, we’ll come back home with the trophy.”

Eye on global stage

KCB will be aiming not only for continental glory but also for qualification to the World Club Championships, with the top three teams in Cairo earning a ticket to the global event.

With a mix of seasoned players and emerging talent, the bankers head into the tournament determined to reassert their dominance on the African stage and restore their status among the continent’s elite volleyball clubs.