Fresh from a historic silver medal conquest in South Africa, Kenya’s women pool team has declared its intent to dominate the global arena, shattering stereotypes and commanding respect in a sport often relegated to the shadows.

The team’s performance at the 2026 African Pool and Billiards Championship in Durban was a watershed moment for Kenyan cue sports. By clinching the silver medal, these women have not only validated their talent but have also issued a bold statement of intent: Kenya is no longer just a participant; it is a contender. This achievement matters because it elevates a fringe sport into the national spotlight, challenging the funding and recognition hegemony enjoyed by athletics and rugby. The road to the world stage is now open, and the Lionesses are ready to hunt.

Breaking the Green Baize Ceiling

For years, pool in Kenya was dismissed as a pastime for bar patrons, devoid of professional structure or athletic merit. The women’s team has dismantled this narrative with clinical precision. Their journey to the final in Durban was paved with grit, tactical discipline, and hours of unpaid training in dimly lit halls in Nairobi. Team Captain Sheila Chajiro, whose leadership was instrumental in the campaign, described the silver medal as "just the beginning" of a revolution that will see Kenyan players competing against the best in Europe and Asia.

The final match against the hosts, South Africa, was a tense affair that showcased the Kenyans mental fortitude. Although they narrowly missed the gold, the experience gained against the continents heavyweights has forged a battle-hardened squad. The technical gap is closing. Where once Kenyan players struggled with the nuances of international table standards and shot clocks, they now execute complex safety plays and clearances with the poise of seasoned professionals.

• The Captains Vision: Sheila Chajiro has called for increased government investment, noting that with proper facilities, Kenya could become an African powerhouse.
• Strategic Evolution: The team has adopted modern training regimens, analyzing video footage of global opponents to refine their break-building and defensive strategies.
• Grassroots Growth: The victory is already inspiring a new generation of young girls in Eastlands and beyond to pick up a cue, seeing it as a legitimate pathway to sporting glory.

The Road Ahead

The immediate focus now shifts to the World Championships. The technical bench is already drafting a rigorous preparation schedule that involves high-performance training camps and friendly matches against top-tier opposition. However, the perennial ghost of funding looms large. The team’s success in Durban was achieved on a shoestring budget, a feat that is sustainable only for so long. For Kenya to transition from continental silver medalists to world champions, the Ministry of Sports and corporate sponsors must step up to the table.

As the team returns home, the accolades are well-deserved, but the players know the hard work has just begun. They have tasted glory, and it has only whetted their appetite for more. The cue sticks have been chalked, the balls racked, and the eyes of the sporting world are slowly turning towards Nairobi. The Lionesses are not just playing games; they are changing the game.