This archive report was first published on 20 August 2019.
Kenya is set to host the Africa State Bowls Championships for the first time since 2011, with six countries participating, including South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Zambia, and Botswana.
The championships will take place at Nairobi Club and Karen Country Club, with the men's competition at Karen Country Club and the women's competition at Nairobi Club.
Each team has five men and as many women, except for Namibia, which has brought a men's team only.
The competition will be held in four categories: singles, pairs, trips, and fours, with South Africa defending both the men's and women's trips and pairs titles.
On August 20, 2019, Cabinet Secretary for Sports Amina Mohammed officially opened the championships at Nairobi Club, urging Team Kenya to put their best foot forward.
“I wish to warmly welcome all the visiting players and their supporters to the country,” Mohammed said. “It's my hope you will enjoy the tournament, but it's essential to remember that our country has a lot to offer beyond sports.”
Esther Walker, the most valuable player in the 2017 Africa State Bowls Championships, is part of the Kenya women's team, which also includes Christine Mbae, Frida Mwangi, Celestine Masila, and Susan Wambugu.
Walker and Wambugu were part of the Team Kenya that qualified for the World Bowls Championships in Australia in May next year.
The men's team consists of Benson Kariuki, Joseph Kitosi, Joseph Njagi, Cephas Kimwaki, and James Ngugi.
“We have been practicing since the team was selected in April this year. These are worthy players, and for sure, they will deliver medals,” said Walker.
