Kenya is officially in the race to host the 2026 World Rafting Championships, with top officials from the Kenya Rafting Federation (KRF) preparing to travel to Rome next month to present the country’s bid before the International Rafting Federation (IRF).
Why River Sagana is a Prime Venue for World Rafting
Following the successful hosting of the first-ever African Rafting Championship on River Sagana in Murang’a County, Kenya is building strong momentum toward securing the global event. According to KRF Secretary General William Kinuthia, the river meets all international standards and offers a unique competitive edge.
“River Sagana has the best course in Africa, and that’s why the just concluded event was held in Kenya. The river has held Olympic qualifiers before, and it is ready to host any global white-water rafting event,” Kinuthia told Citizen Digital. He emphasized the river’s safety, pointing out, “The waters in the river also do not have the threat of crocodiles and hippos, and this also gives us an advantage over other countries.”
If successful, Kenya would become only the second African country to host the World Rafting Championships, after South Africa in 1999.
How Kenya’s Recent Victory Boosts Its Global Bid
Kenya’s dominance in the African Championships has added weight to its 2026 hosting ambitions. At the four-day competition, which attracted 11 countries, the Kenyan team swept all gold medals in every category, including Slalom races, the Downriver events, the Rx race, and the Mixed Slalom. This gold medal clean sweep secured Kenya the only African ticket to this year’s Senior World Rafting Championships, scheduled for November 3–9 in San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina.
“Now that Kenya will feature at this year’s global event, this will also strengthen our bid to host the event next year,” Kinuthia added.
What’s Next for Team Kenya Ahead of Argentina?
As preparations intensify, the national rafting team will participate in the East Africa Ocean Rafting Championships set for October 9–12 in Mombasa. Additionally, the team is expected to pitch camp in Uganda, where they will utilize the River Nile course for advanced training.
This year’s World Rafting Championship in Argentina will host nearly 400 athletes from around 30 countries. Kenya’s performance on the world stage, and the outcome of its 2026 bid could mark a turning point for African representation in extreme water sports.
By Yockshard Enyendi