Kenya confirmed to host Africa Judo Showdown in April

Kenya has been confirmed as the host of the upcoming Africa Judo Championships, a three-day tournament scheduled from Thursday, April 23 to Sunday, April 26, 2026, at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani (MISC) in Nairobi.

Speaking on Tuesday during the national team’s training at the venue, team captain Mary Wanjiru expressed confidence, saying Kenya is aiming for a strong medal haul as it prepares for upcoming events, including the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in July and the Dakar Youth Olympics in October.

“We have prepared well so far and we are ready. Hosting an event of this magnitude gives us a home advantage, and we urge our fans to fill the arena,” said Wanjiru.

“Winning medals at home will earn us valuable points heading into other competitions later in the year. That’s why it is important for us if we want to maintain a strong national team season,” she added.

The National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOCK) confirmed the country’s readiness to host the continental showdown in a statement issued on Tuesday, April 14, 2026. The committee noted that the prestigious event will bring together elite judokas from across Africa, marking a major milestone for the growth of the sport in the region, with 32 nations expected to participate.

“Kenya is set to host the African Judo Championships from April 23 to 26, a premier continental event bringing together the very best in the sport,” part of the NOCK statement read.

The Kenya Judo Federation has also brought in Japanese coach Yusuke Utashiro, with the team currently in camp and fully focused on the championships.

However, there is a tense but determined mood among the country’s judokas, who are not only targeting success on home soil but also preparing for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and the Dakar Youth Olympics later this year.