African women’s volleyball is expanding its reach. More countries are taking part in competitions, new teams are making progress and the hierarchy is becoming less predictable. The 2026 African Women’s Volleyball Championship in Nairobi offered another illustration of this shift.
Egypt won the title by beating Kenya 3 sets to 0 (25-22, 25-15, 25-15) in the final. It was a convincing victory against the host nation, defending champions and ten-time African champions.
Egypt went through the entire tournament without dropping a single set. Seven matches, seven victories and 21 sets won. The fourth continental title in their history, following victories in 1976, 1989 and 2003, also puts them on the road to the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. They have also qualified for the 2027 FIVB Women’s World Championship.
For Mariam Metwally, named MVP of the tournament, the title also rewards an ambition that goes beyond the continent.
“My only dream is to reach the Olympic Games. I’m very happy to have been named MVP and, for the first time in my career, best receiver-attacker. And above all, yes, we are African champions!”, Mariam Metwally said.
