Sagana: Preparations are in top gear at Rapids Camp along the Sagana River as Kenya gears up to host the inaugural African Rafting Championship. The historic event, the first of its kind on the continent, is expected to draw over 100 participants from more than 10 African countries.
According to Kenya News Agency, Team Kenya Manager Sammy Kanyuira expressed confidence in his squad during a training session, stating that they are well-prepared for the landmark competition. "This is the first time we are having this tournament and I have prepared my team very well to face off with other countries," said Kanyuira. He noted that while some team members will be competing for the first time, the entire squad is ready and motivated.
Lynn Maina, a member of Team Kenya, affirmed their preparedness, stating, "Training has been good, and we are confident we will win. We will do our best." From South Sudan, Akot Ajak also expressed optimism, saying her team is aiming for victory and qualification for the next round of the competition set to be held in Argentina. She encouraged more women to participate in the sport, emphasizing that water rafting is not just for men.
Bukuru Siboma and Eric Babazi, representing the Democratic Republic of Congo, shared that their team is still finalizing preparations but are enjoying their experience in Kenya. "This river (Sagana) is great. It will make for a good competition. We're excited to compete with teams from across Africa," said Babazi.
Etien Edabalishe, representing Rwanda, praised the opportunity to train and compete in Kenya. "We've been training in Rwanda, and this championship has brought us here. My team is ready, and we aim to win," he said.
William Kinuthia, Manager of Rapids Camp and one of the main facilitators of the event, explained that while continents like Asia, Europe, and Australia have long hosted similar championships, this will be Africa's first. "This is the first-ever white-water rafting competition to be held in Africa. The Water Rafting Federation, which regulates the sport globally, chose Africa to help grow the sport on the continent, where its presence has been limited," Kinuthia stated. He added that white-water rafting has commercial tourism potential, especially in regions with suitable rivers.
Kinuthia outlined three main events scheduled across five days: Downriver, which is a 7-kilometre paddle downstream where the fastest team will win. There will also be the Slalom and RX, each covering 300 metres and requiring athletes to navigate 12 set gates. Seven judges from the Water Rafting Federation will officiate the competition, ensuring international standards are upheld.
Belabbas El Mamoun, Chair of the African Rafting Council, is expected to grace the event, which will officially kick off on July 14. Countries set to participate include Kenya, South Sudan, Sudan, Congo, Rwanda, Tanzania, Botswana, Burundi, Morocco, and Uganda, among others.