Malkia Strikers libero Josephine Kataa/ HANDOUTMalkia Strikers libero Josephine Kataa is leading a potential exodus of KCB players to Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) National League champions Kenya Pipeline ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Kataa is on the verge of joining Pipeline after impressing at the 2026 CAVB Women’s African Nations Volleyball Championship in Nairobi, where she established herself as Kenya’s first-choice libero as Malkia Strikers finished runners-up to Egypt.
The 19-year-old has already started training with Pipeline, joining the Oilers at their training base on Tuesday, with a source close to the player saying she could complete the move before the end of the week.
“She is excited about the move to Pipeline. She already began training with them on Tuesday, and it’s just a matter of time before she puts pen to paper,” the source said. “Sadly, KCB didn’t show commitment after the player attended a training session last Monday, and the player had no choice but to make a move to where she felt she was needed the most.”
Kataa’s proposed switch comes amid reports linking three other KCB players with Pipeline in what could result in a major reshaping of the bankers’ squad. Outside hitter Faith Sakong, middle blocker Sharon Serem and middle blocker Pauline Chemutai are all reportedly being lined up for moves to the league champions.
Chemutai can also play as an opposite hitter, giving Pipeline additional options as they prepare to defend their league title. The possible departures would be a significant blow to KCB, who finished third in last season’s KVF National League behind Pipeline and the other leading contenders.
For Kataa, the move follows a rapid rise to the senior international stage. The former Kwanthanze Secondary School player was included in the Malkia Strikers provisional squad for the African Championship for the first time before making the final team.
Initially selected alongside Sharon “Shakakhola” Arusei in the libero department, Kataa went on to command the starting position during the continental championship, attracting interest from several local clubs.
Her performances also came as Kenya secured qualification for the 2027 FIVB Women’s World Championship, although Malkia Strikers missed out on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games after losing to Egypt in the African Championship final. At Pipeline, Kataa would face competition for the libero position from Arusei and Betty Sifuna.
