Kenya holds trials ahead of Para Badminton International games in Egypt

Speaking during the event, Badminton Kenya Chairman Peter Muchiri affirmed that they are looking to select 20 players out of 28, eight of whom have already qualified.

He also noted that by having their Para athletes ready in time, Kenya will replicate their Africa Para Badminton Championships success in Nigeria in October 2025, where they finished second overall with 11 medals, comprising four gold, two silver, and five bronze.

"So far we already have eight of these players who have qualified for the first time in Kenya for the world Para Badminton championships.

"We are excited because these trials will be used to select the national team for the whole 2026 tour." Said Muchiri.

He also noted that despite challenges with the training facilities and venues being unavailable sometimes, with continued support from the government, the team has the potential to bring home the 20 medals.  

"These players train very hard every day. They can do much more, beyond the sport. With enough support, they can perform." He added.

National team head coach John Mburu added that he will come up with a final list of 20 athletes, out of the 28 that showed up, taking into consideration that Kenya already has about eight Para badminton players that are ranked by the world body.

"We also have some new faces from different secondary schools and colleges that we have to scrutinize, just in case we don't miss a talent.

"Of course with others who are regulars and experienced, in about a week or two I should have finalized the final provisional list of 20," said Mburu.

Notable figures that attended the trials and are expected to be named in Mburu's final 20 are Africa gold medallists Benson Nduva and Anthony Ojwang, while other medallists present were Mary Nduku, Boniface Were, Caleb Omollo, Stency Neema, Patrick Muema, Elizabeth Nabwire, Petronila Muhani, Ashley Autai, and Newton Gatobu.

Kenya Para Badminton Federation president Jennifer Kamanda hailed her players, urging the county governments in the country to step up more in infrastructure, especially those that can support Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in participating in sports.