Kenya Prisons plot for their big break in Africa

What you need to know:

  • Kenya Prisons coach Gideon Chenje is looking at, at worst, a podium finish at the men’s Africa Club Championship in Tunisia.
  • The wardens are in Tunis to compete in this annual 10-day competition that has attracted a record entry of 28 clubs from all over the continent.
  • The games will officially serve off at the Tunisian capital Tunis on Friday.

Kenya Prisons coach Gideon Chenje is looking at, at worst, a podium finish at the men’s Africa Club Championship in Tunisia.

The wardens are in Tunis to compete in this annual 10-day competition that has attracted a record entry of 28 clubs from all over the continent.

The games will officially serve off at the Tunisian capital Tunis on Friday.

Prisons, who are the reigning Kenyan champions, are the country’s sole representatives at the continental showpiece after the last minute withdrawal of General Service Unit due to financial constraints.

Despite the presence of a star studded north African contingent that includes record holders Ahly of Egypt (11 titles), Sfax (six titles), Esperance (four titles) and arch rivals Etoile du Sahel (two titles) all of whom are drawn from the host nation, brave Chenje is optimistic his charges will put up a good fight on a stage they have consistently come out third best. 

“You know we are soldiers and so we don’t fear anyone,” the former Kenya international said

He added: “The north Africans have more experience and better training facilities. We have, however, prepared well to match them physically and technically. I expect us to make the semis at the very least.” 

Other clubs that have confirmed participation are Swehly (Libya) and Bourj Bouaririh (Algeria).

Chenje, who has been Prisons coach for the past five seasons, said that the six-week training the team had will count for something.

Prisons will rely on international stars Hudson Wanyama, Sila Kiptoo and Rogers Kipkurui, to power them beyond the fourth placed finish the side attained in Libya four years ago.

Winners will qualify to play at the World Club Championship in Brazil in May.

Kenya Prisons tour squad:

Setters - Kelvin Maiyo, Daniel kiptoo; Right Attackers - Ibrahim Oduor, Sila Kipruto; Left attackers - Denis Mokua, Ezekiel Kibet, Jairus Bet, Joseph at Kirwa; Centre blockers - Rogers Kipkirui, Hudson Wanyama, Kimutai Timona; Libero - Kokonya Walubengo; Coaches - Gideon Chenje, Paul Muthinja