Kenya Under-20 Lacrosse team seeks government support

Kenya Lacrosse national team goalkeeper Elijah Musembi during training in Nairobi ahead of U20 World Lacrosse Men's Championship to be held in Korea, on July 6, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

The Kenya men’s national team is seeking government support to travel to Jeju, South Korea for the 2025 World Lacrosse Men’s Under-20 Championship that begins on August 15.

The Kenya Lacrosse Association (KLA) through its patron Linda Mwende revealed that the team which is set to play its opening match on Friday against Chinese Taipei had not received funding from the government despite presenting their budget.

“We are yet to receive any financial support from government days to our first game. They had earlier told us that our request was under review and so we still hope that the ministry will offer the much-needed financial support,” Mwende said.

She expressed concern that even though the team will be flying the Kenyan flag, they are yet to receive government funding like other teams.

“It’s sad that we are still waiting for government support though we remain optimistic that the boys will get support like other national teams are getting.”   

Mwende said the team comprises learners from humble backgrounds and allowances would help improve their lives.

“Some of these players have huge fee balances in school. If the government would support by at least paying allowances then they would clear their fee balances.”

Kenya and Ghana are the only African countries that will be chasing glory at the global event that will bring together 20 nations.

Kenya Lacross Association Patron Linda Mwende during training in Nairobi ahead of U20 World Lacrosse Men's Championship to be held in Korea, on July 6, 2025. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Mwende who has worked around the clock to ensure that the team travels and arrives in time for the championship, exuded confidence that they will excel.

“These boys are fighters and I believe that they will defy all odds and perform well. They have shown commitment and worked very hard in training and I’m confident that their unwavering dedication and efforts will culminate in success,” she said.

Kenya is in Group E and will begin their campaign on Saturday against Chinese Taipei. They will take on Puerto Rico and Germany in their second and third pool matches.

The Kenyan boys will be under the tutelage of Isaac Kirinya who will be assisted by coaches Vincent Nyamweya, Mclean Richard, Remingtone Joshua and Bonface Agoi.

Captain Vincent Odhiambo will lead the team on the field alongside his assistants Brimin Koyo and Gideon Maranga.