Inside Team Kenya’s squads set for Lefika International Relays in Botswana
By Joel Masibo, March 28, 2026Kenya carried a dynamic relay team ahead of the upcoming Lefika International Relays scheduled for Saturday, March 28, 2026, in Gaborone, Botswana. The selected squads feature a blend of experienced sprinters and emerging talents.
Men’s 4×100m team
The men’s short relay squad boasts depth and versatility, with six athletes named to the lineup. Meshack Babu, Moses Wasike, Ronald Koech, and Elkana Sabila form the core of the team, with Dennis Mwai and Boniface Mweresa providing additional options.
Mixed 4×100m team
Kenya’s mixed 4×100m team will be spearheaded by Africa’s fastest man, Ferdinand Omanyala, whose explosive speed is expected to provide a major boost. He is joined by Boniface Mweresa and Meshack Babu on the men’s side, while Millicent Ndolo, Eunice Kadogo, and Lilian Aoko represent the women’s contingent.
As the nation continues to expand its footprint beyond its traditional dominance in middle- and long-distance races, Omanyala has confirmed the desire to make history with the 4×100 mixed relays in Botswana.
”I am part of the team that is going to make history because we are going to participate in the 4×100 in the Lefika mixed relays for the first time. It is exciting because this marks the beginning of a new journey for the Kenyan sprints. we want to make sure that the journey continues from where we are starting,” he shared.
Touching on the expectations from fans back home and the pressure that comes with leading the team, Omanyala said:
”Basically, there is no pressure. I am using it as a way of getting into the season. It is a good way to start because relays are fun for me, and it’s a great way to get back into competition.” He added.
The mixed relay presents a strategic challenge, requiring seamless coordination between male and female athletes.
Men’s 4×400m team
In the men’s 4×400m category, Kenya has assembled a reliable squad led by Danson Kibet, Erastus Mbaluka, Edward Opicho, and Kipkorir Rotich, with David Sanayek also included.
Mixed 4×400m team
The mixed 4×400m team features Allan Kipyego, Kelvin Kipkorir, George Mutinda, Mercy Oketch, Mercy Chebet, and Millicent Ndolo.
Women’s 4×400m team
Kenya’s women’s 4×400m team includes Purity Joy, Naomi Mwangi, Hellen Syombua, and Lanoline Aoko.
Technical bench
The team will be guided by a technical bench comprising coaches Perpetual Mbutu, Stephen Mwaniki, Wellington Nyakundi, and Mark Mutai.
Overseeing the delegation is team manager Dimmy Kisalu. This event, set to be staged at the National Stadium in Gaborone, Botswana, serves as a key competition for nations, including Kenya and Nigeria, to qualify for the World Athletics Relays.