Kenya Wheelchair Basketball eyes glory as trials kick off ahead of 2026 qualifiers

Kenya Wheelchair Basketball Federation (KWBF) has stepped up preparations for the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games qualifiers, after holding national trials for both men and women in the 3×3 and 5×5 categories, alongside the Under-25 women’s team.

The trials, held at the Moi International Sports Centre (MISC) Kasarani Indoor Arena, drew more than 70 athletes from over five counties, a turnout federation President Alfred Simiyu Barasa described as “remarkable” despite economic challenges.

“The turn up has been amazing, at least having athletes from over five counties despite the economic challenges is something positive. We have had difficulties in acquiring this facility, but thank God finally we have made it,” said Simiyu.

“These athletes need socio-economic support, and we also have to provide training facilities that are favorable to them since they have disabilities. With that, I believe we are going for gold medals next year,” he added.

Kenya’s 3×3 and 5×5 teams will prepare for the International Wheelchair Basketball Federation (IWBF) Africa Championships in Luanda from March 27 to April 4, 2026.

The tournament will determine African representatives for the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games and the World Championships in Ottawa.

Kenya will also field a 12-player women’s squad at the African U-25 Championship in Kinshasa, a pathway to senior World Championship qualification.

With athletes showing strong commitment, attention now turns to KWBF and government partners to provide the required support to ensure Kenya’s wheels roll smoothly toward continental and global success.