Kenya Set to Launch Bid to Host 2026 World Rafting Championships in Rome

 

By Levin Kiprop

Kenya is poised to make waves on the global white-water sports scene, with the Kenya Rafting Federation (KRF) preparing to present an official bid to host the 2026 World Rafting Championships next month in Rome, Italy.

This ambitious move comes on the heels of a highly successful African Rafting Championship held last week on the River Sagana in Murang’a County. Not only did Kenya host the inaugural continental event, but its national team also dominated the competition — clinching all available gold medals and securing Africa’s sole ticket to the 2024 Senior World Rafting Championships, scheduled for November 3–9 in San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina.

KRF Secretary General William Kinuthia, who will lead Kenya’s delegation to the International Rafting Federation (IRF) meeting in Rome, expressed optimism about Kenya’s prospects.

“River Sagana has the best course in Africa, and that’s why the just-concluded African Championship was held here,” said Kinuthia. “The river has previously hosted Olympic qualifiers and is fully equipped to handle any global white-water rafting event.”

Should the bid succeed, Kenya would become only the second African nation to host the World Rafting Championships — following South Africa’s historic hosting in 1999.

Kenya’s flawless performance in Murang’a, including wins in the Slalom, Downriver, Rx, and Mixed Slalom categories, has elevated the nation’s standing in international rafting circles. Kinuthia believes this dominance strengthens Kenya’s case as a world-class host.

“Now that Kenya will feature at this year’s global event, this will also strengthen our bid to host the event next year,” he added.

The African Championship attracted participants from 11 nations, but Kenya emerged supreme across all divisions. As the national team prepares for its world-stage debut in Argentina, further preparations are underway, including participation in the upcoming East Africa Ocean Rafting Championships scheduled for October 9–12 in Mombasa.

Additionally, the team will head to Uganda for specialized training on the River Nile course, known for its challenging rapids and technical demands.

The 2024 World Championships in Argentina are expected to attract nearly 400 athletes from around 30 countries — offering Kenya not only a chance to showcase its athletic prowess but also build momentum for its 2026 hosting ambitions.