Sports 7 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda and Kenya Triumph in CAVB Zone V Volleyball Championship Qualifiers
Uganda's Lady Volleyball Cranes and Kenya's Wafalme Stars have emerged victorious in the CAVB Zone V Nations Championship Qualifiers held in Kampala, securing their spots in the continental championships. The men's and women's events will take place later this year in DR Congo and Kenya, respectively. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/other-sport/uganda-kenya-crowned-cavb-zone-v-champions-5488274
The Lugogo Indoor Arena in Kampala recently hosted the thrilling CAVB Zone V Nations Championship Qualifiers, with Uganda’s Lady Volleyball Cranes and Kenya’s Wafalme Stars clinching the top honors. The event saw national teams from Uganda, Kenya, Burundi, Tanzania, and South Sudan battle for the sole qualification slots to the prestigious CAVB African Nations Volleyball Championship.
In the men’s division, Kenya’s Wafalme Stars showcased exceptional form, navigating the tournament with an undefeated streak. Their dominant performances included convincing straight-set victories over Tanzania and hosts Uganda, solidifying their status as the region’s strongest contenders. Key players like Nicholas Matui and Brian Melly were instrumental in their flawless campaign.
The Uganda Volleyball Cranes, despite showing promise with wins against South Sudan and Tanzania, were ultimately unable to overcome their Kenyan rivals in a decisive match. Head coach Shilla Omuriwe’s team is evidently in a rebuilding phase, with their performance offering encouraging signs for future tournaments.
On the women’s side, the Uganda Lady Volleyball Cranes delivered a commanding performance on home soil. Led by captain Catherine Ainembabazi, the team secured their qualification by defeating Burundi and South Sudan. Head coach Protus Soita highlighted the successful integration of new talent alongside experienced players, attributing the team’s success to a fresh dynamic and renewed spirit.
“This time, we wanted to bring in a new team with a new vibe, new energy, and it has paid off,” Soita stated, emphasizing the need for adequate preparation to compete effectively at the upcoming continental championship.
With these qualifiers concluded, both Uganda and Kenya are set to represent Zone V at the continental championship. The women’s championship will be held in Nairobi, Kenya from August 22 to September 5, while the men’s competition is scheduled for Kinshasa, DR Congo, from September 6 to 21. These tournaments will provide a crucial platform for both nations to test their mettle against Africa’s elite volleyball teams.