Kenya’s national military boxing team delivered an outstanding performance at the second edition of the Africa Military Games Boxing Championships, clinching four gold medals and one silver.
The competition featured 14 African nations and was held in Abuja, Nigeria, from November 18.
Edwin ‘Ocox’ Okong’o led the charge and triumphed in the middleweight category by defeating Libya’s Dawilu Asum in the final.
Okong’o, who claimed gold at the African Championships in Accra, Ghana, earlier this year, showcased his dominance by overcoming Nigeria’s Oladokun Oluwaseum en route to the final.
In the bantamweight division, Dennis Muthama emerged victorious in a thrilling East African clash against Uganda’s Japyem James.
Representing the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) in the national league, Muthama demonstrated relentless determination, gaining an edge in the first round and sealing his win in the subsequent rounds.
Similarly, Kevin Maina dominated Algeria’s Mohammed Yacine in the flyweight division, employing sheer intensity to secure his gold medal.
Meanwhile, Friza ‘Frizz’ Anyango shone in the welterweight category, overpowering Nigeria’s Esther Joseph in a commanding display.
Kenya’s only silver medal came from Veronica ‘Mbixe’ Mbithe, who bravely fought in the light flyweight final but fell short against Nigeria’s Caroline Linus, the 2015 African champion.
Kenya Boxing Federation (KBF) President Anthony Otieno Ombok, popularly known as Jamal, lauded the team for their exemplary performance.
“I congratulate these boxers for bringing pride to our nation in this military competition,” said Ombok in a statement.
Kenya’s success in Abuja underscores the country’s growing prowess in boxing and its ability to shine on the continental stage.
By Mkalla wa Mwambodze