Omanyala opens up on desire to make history at Lefika International Relays in Botswana
By Joel Masibo, March 28, 2026Africa’s fastest man, Ferdinand Omanyala, has opened up on the desire to make history in the 4x100m mixed relay at the upcoming Lefika International Relays in Gaborone, Botswana, on Saturday, March 28, 2026.
Omanyala will be spearheading Team Kenya at the event for the first time in the country’s history. The debut marks a significant step in Kenya’s sprint evolution, as the nation continues to expand its footprint beyond its traditional dominance in middle- and long-distance races.
Chasing history
Speaking ahead of the relays on Saturday, Omanyala said:
”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 sprint sensation also touched on last season’s challenges. ”Last season was a bit down because I got injured just before the World Championships, but again we did not achieve what we wanted because it was the season since I became a pro that I did not run a sub-10,” Omanyala said.
Omanyala will be joined by a strong cast of sprinters, including Boniface Mweresa and Meshack Babu on the men’s side, alongside a talented trio of women athletes, Millicent Ndolo, Eunice Kadogo, and Lilian Aoko.
New path
The introduction of the mixed 4x100m relay offers Kenya a fresh opportunity to showcase its growing sprint depth, blending speed and coordination between male and female athletes in a format that is gaining global recognition.
The Lefika Relays will serve as a crucial test event ahead of the World Athletics Relays 2026, where teams will be looking to secure qualification spots and build momentum on the international circuit.
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.