The Kenya Wheelchair Basketball Federation (KWBF) has selected a team of eight men and seven women, all under 25 years of age, to represent the country at the 2026 World Abilitysport Youth Games, scheduled for 15–22 June 2026 in Mersin, Turkey.
Speaking on Wednesday at the Moi International Sports Centre (MISC) Kasarani indoor arena, federation president Alfred Simiyu, who also serves as Ability Sport Kenya vice president, praised the selected athletes, noting that the immense talent displayed at the arena reflects persistent hard work. He confirmed that the event will feature a 3×3 wheelchair basketball championship.
“The coaches had a tough time selecting these players. They have been training since last November, so they are match fit. The presence of American wheelchair basketball coach Roland Sanders has also helped improve their game,” said Simiyu.
Multi-talented Ashley Inyele will make another comeback to Mersin after winning two gold medals last November in World Abilitysport Beach Games Air Para Badminton. This time, she leads the national women’s wheelchair basketball team, which also includes Sheryl Akoth, Michelle Yegon, Christine Mutheu, Lynn Naseria, Mary Tatu, and Faith Diana.
The eight men selected are Aman Odido, James Ereng', Dansteve Mwenda, Biko Henry, Patrick Ngugi, Paul Gekaru, Duncan Mokaya, and Albanas Kiumbi.
World Abilitysport and the National Paralympic Committee of Türkiye have announced the official sports program, which will include 3×3 Wheelchair Basketball, Para Athletics – Field, Para Dance Sport, Para Fencing, Para Sailing, Para Swimming, and Asian Sepak Takraw.
Kenya is likely to send three teams, subject to confirmation. In addition to the wheelchair basketball team, the country has talent in Para Fencing and Para Swimming.
All eyes will be on Simiyu’s charges to replicate the success of Kenya’s Air Para Badminton and Para Powerlifting teams last November in Mersin, where Kenya finished fourth out of 13 countries, winning three gold, one silver, and two bronze medals.
