Turkana's Desert Warriors reveal brutal cost of playing in KVF Division Two

Yet the result on the court barely captured the deeper struggle. After the match, Desert Warriors head coach Peter Munui opened up about the severe financial and logistical challenges his team — and many other lower-division sides from remote areas — face just to compete.

“The team we played against had good blocking, and they took advantage of the fact that we couldn't cope with their blocks,” said Munui.

He then painted a sobering picture of life for a team from Turkana.

“We are an upcoming team from somewhere where people think there is no talent. Turkana is very far from Nairobi, and by the time we are just looking for each other, it takes time. We don’t have a definite sponsor who is sure that games will come. The cost alone kills us.”

Munui revealed he has a much larger pool of talented players back home but can only travel with a small group due to crippling transport and accommodation costs.

“These are not my only players — I have a lot of players, but due to cost issues, some players are left behind,” he said.

“We urge any well-wishers who would like to chip in — we have a lot of issues affecting us and we need help. If we can get transportation, especially a bus, we can be sure of coming. If we can also get somewhere to train in Nairobi, it will be easier, such that when coming we can come early, have somewhere to train, and everything will be easier.”

Munui’s emotional plea shines a harsh light on the reality confronting many Division Two teams, especially those from far-flung regions like Turkana.

While the top teams enjoy better resources, lower-tier sides often battle not just their opponents on the court, but the sheer cost of simply showing up to play.

Desert Warriors’ defeat adds to their challenges, but Munui’s words serve as a powerful reminder that for teams like his, survival in the league is only half the battle. The financial realities off the court remain the toughest opponent of all.

As the third leg continues at Nyayo Outdoor Court, the on-court action continues, but the off-court struggles of teams from Kenya’s remote regions deserve urgent attention if the sport is to grow equitably across the country.