The Kisumu Lakers Hockey Club, one of Kenya’s shining ambassadors on the turf, is once again on the continental spotlight. The indomitable women’s side is set to represent the nation at the 2025 Africa Cup for Club Champions (ACCC), to be staged at the St. John College Astro Turf in Harare, Zimbabwe, from January 24 to 31.
For years, the Lakers have defined passion, skill and resilience in Kenyan hockey circles. The team has earned a reputation as one of the most disciplined and tactically fluid clubs in the country, regularly outclassing bigger and better-funded teams on the national stage.
They have flown Kenya’s flag high in multiple continental tournaments, establishing a global footprint for a side whose roots lie in the heart of Kisumu City.
Their story is that of grit and glory. Drawn largely from humble backgrounds, the Lakers have consistently defied odds to earn their place among Africa’s elite.
On the turf, they play with rhythm, precision and the unmistakable energy of a team that believes in destiny. Their flair has attracted admiration across borders, making them the pride of the lakeside region and a source of inspiration for many young girls in sports.
However, behind the glamour of their stick work and victories lies a recurring heartbreak that has shadowed their journey. As the team readies for the upcoming continental showdown in Harare, a familiar financial storm threatens to dim their brilliance once again. Despite their impressive track record, doors of support have remained largely closed.
The Lakers require at least Ksh. 1.5 million to cover travel, accommodation and food expenses for the eight-day tournament. Their attempts to seek support from elected leaders and relevant departments within the County Government of Kisumu have, so far, yielded little response.
Head coach Austine Tuju, a man deeply invested in both the sporting and personal growth of his players, has been proactive in addressing the team’s long-term sustainability. Recently, he enrolled the young women in a financial literacy and savings program aimed at empowering them beyond the pitch.
“We have to think beyond the game,” said Tuju. “I want these girls to learn how to plan, save and make smart decisions about money. It will not only help them as individuals but also strengthen the team’s future. We cannot always rely on last-minute appeals every time we qualify for a big tournament.”
Just when despair was beginning to set in, a ray of hope appeared from an unexpected corner. Gem Member of Parliament, Hon. Elisha Odhiambo, made a surprise visit to the team’s training session at Kisumu Boys, offering not just words of encouragement but a personal pledge of financial support amounting to Ksh. 250,000.
Moved by the team’s determination and talent, Hon. Odhiambo commended the Lakers for their consistency and spirit, describing them as a national treasure that deserves better recognition and investment.
“I am pledging Ksh. 250,000 from my own resources to ensure the Kisumu Lakers make it to Harare,” said Hon. Odhiambo. “But this is not just about me. I am calling on fellow leaders, institutions and corporate organisations to come forward through their corporate social responsibility programmes and support this incredible team. These young women are raising Kenya’s flag and they deserve our collective support.”
Training morale has since surged. The players’ energy and optimism have reached a fever pitch, driven by the dream of lifting Kenya’s flag high once again on African soil. Yet, time is ticking fast, and whether the Kisumu Lakers will indeed make the trip remains a matter of great uncertainty.
Their plea now extends beyond county borders. The team is appealing to well-wishers, patriotic Kenyans, corporate organisations and government agencies to step in and make their journey to the 2025 Africa Cup for Club Champions a reality.
The Kisumu Lakers have already proven their worth on the pitch. What remains is for Kenya to prove that it can stand behind its heroes when it matters most.
For support or partnership inquiries, the Kisumu Lakers Hockey Team welcomes direct engagement through their management and official communication channels.
