Malkia Strikers finish second in African tourney

Malkia Strikers in action during women's African Nations championships in Kigali, Rwanda. [CAVB]

Kenya will have to wait for another two years to reclaim their lost glory after Malkia Strikers lost 3-1 to Cameroon in the final of the FIVB African Nations Championships, which ended yesterday, in Kigali, Rwanda.

Cameroon women's volleyball team completed a double over Kenya with a 25-21, 25-23, 15-25 and 25-23) win to retain the African women’s volleyball title.

Cameroon had defeated the East African in straight sets in the first match of pool "B". Kenya last won the title in 2015 in Nairobi.

This is the third successive final Kenya lost to Cameroon with the West Africans, once again, denying the East African queens their record-extending 10th continental title.

The two nations will represent Africa in next year's World Championships in Poland and Netherlands respectively.

Gladys Ekaru, Mercy Moim and Sharon Chepchumba were awarded the best blocker, best receiver and best attacker respectively.

Cameroon's Bassoko and Nana were feted the best server and Most Valuable Player, while Moroccan Alexandra Erhart and Yousra Saudi were named best setter and libero respectively.

Paul Bitok started the final with Sharon Chepchumba, Esther Mutinda, Agripina Kundu, Leonida Kasaya, Edith Wisa and Gladys Ekaru, with captain Mercy Moim making the cut after coming from the bench in the previous matches.