Judokas compete at the 2026 Japanese Ambassador's Cup at the Kasarani Indoor Arena/ HANDOUT
Kenya’s rising judo talents showcased their progress at the 2026 Japanese Ambassador’s Cup held at the Kasarani Indoor Arena in Nairobi, with the cadets competition highlighting the sport’s growing depth and technical standards.
The tournament, organised by the Kenya Judo Federation, brought together athletes from clubs across the country in cadets, juniors and seniors categories, serving as a key development platform for young judokas.
Kenya Amateur Sambo (KAS) dominated the boys’ cadet division, winning three gold medals through Benson Harun (-50kg), Kevin Onganya (-60kg) and John Ouko (-66kg).
Read Also
Red hot Omanyala to orchestrate Kenya's 4x100m charge at World Relays today Athletics
Cup pressure peaks as Shabana host Kenya Police in blockbuster quarter-final Football
Upper Hill coach Walgwe unperturbed despite drawing giants in Prescott Cup group phase Rugby
Harun defeated Ephraim Matupa Alengila of Rift Valley in the -50kg final, while Onganya secured the -60kg title ahead of Ian Ibrahim.
Ouko added another gold for KAS after beating Christian Yafunga Alondo of Rift Valley in the -66kg category.
Enjoying this article? Subscribe for unlimited access to premium sports coverage.
View Plans
Rift Valley’s Arnold Yafunga Botay claimed gold in the -55kg division after overcoming Antorney Boit of KAS, with Nicholas Maina and Bravin Omondi settling for bronze.
In the girls’ competition, several clubs shared the honours in closely contested bouts. High Flyers Gymkhana dominated the -40kg category, where Mercy Chege won gold ahead of Ruth Wambui.
Golden Bridge Judo’s Gracious Quinter captured the -44kg title ahead of Douglas Metrin, while Mitchelle Kulova and Tracy Mboka secured bronze medals.
Rael Kulova of KAS won the -48kg gold medal ahead of Shereen Chemtai, with Anita Malesi finishing third. Golden Bridge Judo continued its strong showing through Munyokho Nipher, who claimed the -57kg title ahead of Lydia Nashipae, while Faith Mwangi settled for bronze.
Triza Mary added another gold for KAS after winning the -63kg category, while Jane Blessing of Golden Bridge Judo topped the -70kg division ahead of Lydia Wayua.
Kenya Judo Federation president Shadrack Maluki presided over the event alongside Japanese Ambassador Hiroshi Matsuura, underlining the strong sporting partnership between Kenya and Japan.
Officials noted significant improvement in technical execution, tactical awareness and physical preparation among the competitors, reflecting structured training programmes across clubs.
The annual Japanese Ambassador’s Cup continues to play an important role in developing young judokas by providing competitive experience and preparing athletes for future continental and international competitions.