'We Are Tired of Fake Promises' - Malkia Strikers Plead With President Ruto Ahead of World Championship Campaign

Kenya's national women's volleyball team, the Malkia Strikers, have made a public appeal for support as they revealed the significant financial struggles and unfulfilled promises from the federation as they prepare for the upcoming World Championships.

Malkia Strikers have been working around the clock in a high-intensity training camp in Vietnam as they gear up for the global championship, scheduled to begin on Friday, August 22, to September 7 in Thailand.

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Speaking on behalf of the squad, captain Meldina Sande pleaded directly with the head of state, President William Ruto, to intervene.

President Ruto has been supportive of Harambee Stars, awarding them Ksh 1 million each for their wins over Morocco and DR Congo at the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024).

Following their 1-1 draw against Angola, President Ruto rewarded Harambee Stars Ksh 500,000 with their win over Zambia, seeing them walk away with Ksh 2.5 million.

"Mr. President, we are also your children; motivate us. We came here with a target, and we don’t want to lose it. CS, you promised us that our money will come, help us,” Meldina Sande said.

“We need something so that we can achieve what we came here to do. We are suffering and that’s why we are making this kind of video. Everyone is suffering.”

Her teammate, Pamela Adhiambo, detailed the challenges the team has endured. The training camp initially started with 29 players who received allowances for the first three weeks of non-residential training. However, problems began after the squad was trimmed to 20.

Residential training was delayed after Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) Deputy President Paul Bitok informed the players that there were no funds available.

"Instead, we were forced to continue for another week in non-residential training, despite the calendar having been released last year. We thought preparations were in place," Adhiambo explained.

The residential camp only commenced after the squad was further reduced to 16 players, with funding largely provided by affiliate sponsors.

Even then, the players faced constant delays when they inquired about allowances and logistics. Despite the setbacks, the players remain committed to representing their country with pride.

"Every time we asked for something, we were told, ‘Tomorrow.’ We kept waiting for this tomorrow that never came," said Adhiambo.

"We are tired of fake promises. We have been struggling, but we will still play against Germany."

Aside from their financial woes, the team also disclosed that they travelled to Thailand without official training kits or playing jerseys from the federation, raising questions about the management of sponsorship funds.

Adhiambo mentioned that before their departure, the team met with Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya. However, she claims the federation prevented them from voicing their concerns, assuring them that all issues had been resolved.