Kenya Navy to field 35 swimmers at the National Masters Swimming Championship set for April 11

The Kenya Navy will field a strong team of 35 swimmers at the Kenya Aquatics National Masters Swimming Championship scheduled for April 11 at the Bandari Maritime Academy in Mombasa.

The championship has steadily grown into one of the country’s key aquatic events. What began with just 23 teams has expanded to more than 50, bringing together clubs, schools, universities, military institutions, corporate organisations, and government agencies from across the country.

Heize Kahindo, a member of the Kenya Aquatics Executive Committee and National Coordinator of Open Water Swimming, praised the Kenya Navy for its consistent support of swimming and water safety initiatives. Kahindo noted that the championship has grown beyond being purely competitive.

“This championship has become a platform for fitness, talent development and partnership,” Kahindo said. “Swimming is not only a sport; it is a life-saving skill and a national asset, especially for a country blessed with rivers, lakes and a long coastline.”

His remarks reflect the growing push to position aquatic sports as an important pillar in national development, particularly in enhancing water safety and nurturing talent among young people.

Kahindo also urged the federation to expand beyond traditional pool competitions and invest in other aquatic disciplines such as underwater swimming, water polo, artistic swimming and diving.

According to him, the Navy possesses the facilities and expertise needed to support such expansion. “We operate in the same waters,” he said.

“The Navy has trained divers and maritime professionals who can add real value. If we work together, we can strengthen the entire aquatic ecosystem.”

He further called on stakeholders to tap into Kenya’s vast water resources to create opportunities for young people, stimulate economic activity and improve the country’s competitiveness on the international stage.

Both Kenya Aquatics and the Kenya Navy believe the future of aquatic sports in the country lies in structured partnerships, grassroots investment and strong institutional backing.

The growing collaboration signals a renewed commitment to producing world-class athletes, promoting water safety and using sport as a tool to unite the nation.