NAIROBI, Kenya — African netball is preparing for one of its biggest moments yet after the official launch of the Africa Netball Cup 2026, a tournament that promises elite competition, continental pride and a crucial pathway to the Netball World Cup Sydney 2027. Scheduled for 19–26 September 2026 at the Kasarani Indoor Arena in Nairobi, the championship will be a historic occasion as Kenya hosts the Africa Netball Cup for the very first time. The event will bring together the continent’s top men’s and women’s national teams in a celebration of African talent and the continued growth of the sport.
Beyond the battle for continental supremacy, the women’s competition carries even greater significance as it serves as the African qualifying tournament for the Netball World Cup Sydney 2027. While South Africa and Uganda have already secured their World Cup places through the World Netball Rankings, the tournament will determine the remaining two African nations that will join them on netball’s biggest stage. The women’s championship will feature ten of Africa’s strongest teams: South Africa, Uganda, Kenya, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Zambia, Botswana, Nigeria and Tanzania. With World Cup qualification at stake, fans can expect intense competition as every match becomes a step closer to Sydney.
Speaking during the launch, Africa Netball Acting President Rebekka Goagoses described the tournament as a symbol of the sport’s continued transformation across the continent, she noted that hosting the championship in Kenya demonstrates the growing strength of African netball while creating opportunities to develop young talent, strengthen competition and elevate the continent’s presence on the global stage.
For the host nation, the event is more than a sporting spectacle. It presents an opportunity to showcase Kenya’s ability to stage international competitions while leaving a lasting legacy through improved infrastructure, enhanced event management and increased public interest in netball. Kenya Netball President Immaculate Kabutha emphasized the country’s commitment to delivering a world-class championship that meets international standards while giving athletes, officials and supporters an unforgettable experience. She described hosting the tournament for the first time as a proud milestone for Kenyan netball and a chance to inspire future generations.
As the countdown to September begins, excitement continues to build across the continent. The Africa Netball Cup 2026 will not only crown Africa’s champions but will also shape the continent’s representation at the Netball World Cup Sydney 2027.
With continental glory, national pride and World Cup dreams all on the line, Nairobi is set to become the heartbeat of African netball this September.
