National women’s team, Malkia Strikers’ captain Mercy Moim has been forced to return home from the African Games here in Accra, Ghana, after losing both her husband and mother-in-law on Sunday night.
Moim received the sad news of the double tragedy while representing Kenya at the continental Games in Accra and had so far led the team to victory in the opening two matches against Seychelles and Nigeria with a similar score of 3-0 sets.
Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) Vice-President, Paul Bitok, confirmed that Moim was on her way back home and was in the company of assistant Chaperone Caroline Oriedo and they are expected in Nairobi today.
He said Moim is a long serving captain and it’s a big blow to Malkia Strikers who will be forced to operate without a skipper.
“ The players have for many years relied on her for guidance and I do not know how they will operate. However, I think they should win the event for her,” he said.
Meanwhile, Team Kenya management condoled the family of Moim following the tragedy.
“Volleyball family kindly accept our sincere condolences to your captain Mercy Moim for the double loss of her dear husband and mother in law. The entire Planning Committee is saddened with this very sad news and we pray for God’s mercies and comfort for Mercy during this trying moment,” read a statement from the committee.
“The entire volleyball team kindly take heart, have peace and be strong as you represent our country during your remaining matches. We wish you all the best and may the good Lord rest the souls of the departed in eternal peace,” said James Akama, who is the excutive director of the team.
