The Kasarani Aquatic Complex in Kiambu was the setting for the highly anticipated Kenya Aquatics Swimming Competition, held on February 15th and 16th, 2025.
The competition was a key event for selecting Kenya’s national swimming team and brought together swimmers from across the country, as well as participants from Uganda and Tanzania, totaling 42 teams.
For many of the athletes, this event marked a crucial opportunity to showcase their skills on a national stage. “Kenya Aquatics, formerly known as the Kenya Swimming Federation, has recently been sanctioned as a qualifier. This enables anyone from across the world to participate in Kenya and get a chance to be selected for the World Championships,” said George Marigiri, Secretary General of Kenya Aquatics.
A significant advantage for Kenyan swimmers is the 50-meter pool at Kasarani, the only one of its kind in East Africa. Marigiri highlighted the importance of such facilities, stating, “The pools that are mostly used for competitions abroad are 50 meters, thus providing the perfect training experience.”
For those who qualified, the journey continues beyond the national competition. The selected swimmers will travel to Egypt from April 30th to May 3rd for the Africa Junior Championships. Following this continental event, they will head to the World Championships in Singapore in July, with the hopes of gaining more exposure and improving their skills on the global stage.
Kenya Aquatics, which took office last year, has faced significant challenges, including inheriting debts from the previous administration, placing financial strain on the organization.
Despite these challenges, Marigiri expressed gratitude for the support received from sponsors and the government, which has played a vital role in ensuring the success of the team.
“The government has provided kits for the national team, covered accommodations, flights, and occasionally offered tokens for those participating in championships abroad,” Marigiri noted.
Beyond the immediate benefits of competing, international competitions offer swimmers invaluable exposure and growth opportunities. They also provide a chance to travel and pursue scholarships. Marigiri shared that three scholarships have already been awarded: one in Italy and two in the United States.
Swimming, a sport that is accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels, is valued not just for its athletic benefits but also for its mental and physical health advantages. As a low-impact, full-body workout, it strengthens muscles, improves cardiovascular health, and enhances flexibility without putting stress on joints. The buoyancy of water also makes it ideal for those recovering from injuries.
In addition to its physical benefits, swimming promotes mental well-being. It acts as a natural stress reliever, releasing endorphins that boost mood and promote relaxation. Regular swimming can also improve sleep patterns, enhance cognitive function, and support weight management, making it a holistic form of exercise for people of all ages.
As Kenya continues to develop its swimming talent, the efforts at Kasarani are just the beginning of a journey that could propel swimmers to international success and bring greater recognition to Kenya’s growing aquatic capabilities.
By Yvonne Wangeci and Glory Nambwi