For over a decade, Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) had consistently knocked on the doors of the Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) Men’s National League glory, reaching the final three times and the semi-finals six times.
But it always came to naught until this season
In their third final play-offs the Dockers finally won the coveted national title on Saturday when they defeated Chema Volleyball Club from Juja, Kiambu 2-0 in their best-of-three series at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
Under the guidance of former international James Ontere, who took charge in 2023, the Coast-based lads swept past league debutants Chema in 3-0 sets of 25-21, 25-20 and 25-21 in Game Two to sweep the series.
KPA had survived a scare in a thrilling five-set battle on Friday to prevail 3-2 (25-19, 22-25, 27-29, 25-19, 16-14).
Peter Kamara, Kelvin Wanyama and Fredrick Muiruri led KPA’s assault against Chema.
Not surprising, Kamara was named the league’s Most Valuable Player, Wanyama the Best Outside Hitter and Muiruri the Best Libero.
KPA received winners prize money of Sh300,000 courtesy of the new KVF Men and Women’s Leagues sponsors, BetPawa, while Chema pocketed Sh200,000.
Kenya Ports Authority players celebrate a point against Chema Volleyball Club during the KVF Men’s National League finals at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani on July 18, 2026.
Photo credit: Chris Omollo | Nation Media Group
Kenya Prisons received Sh100,000 for finishing third after beating Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) 3-2 (25-23, 25-19, 23-25, 24-26, 15-12). KDF received Sh50,000.
KPA reached the final for the first time in 2022, where they lost to General Service Unit (GSU) 3-1.
They returned to the final play-offs two years later only to be blown away three games to zero by GSU.
Massive support from KPA management led by Chief Executive Officer, William Ruto, who is also the patron of the club, quality signings, improved player welfare and more training time did the trick.
“The management has been giving us more time for training, like the whole week or 10 consecutive days, unlike before when we used to struggle to find time,” said Ontere.
“You see, a settled player whose bills are paid on time will always deliver and that has for sure pushed us this far,” said Ontere.
Onjere said the signing of six players, especially following the departure of middle blocker Lewis Ogutu to Chema, brought a new lease of life to KPA, as they improved on their speed and reception.
Middle blocker Abraham Kiplangat and setter Elias Gitau, joined from Equity players as middle blocker Gorge Okore, returned to the club.
The other signings were another middle blocker Dominic Fikiri, and outside hitter, Mathew Imani, who were scouted from high school.
“This improved our speed and the more time we trained together the more we bonded,” said Onjere.
The former international said they will now turn their focus on Kenya Cup this weekend before planning for next year’s African Men’s Club Championships.
“We shall definitely recruit,” said Onjera, who dedicated the victory to their CEO Ruto and their chairman Geoffrey Kavate.
Kenya Pipeline volleyball players celebrate with the trophy after winning the KVF Women’s National Volleyball League title at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani on July 19, 2026.
Photo credit: Chris Omollo | Nation Media Group
Team captain Dennis Omollo, who has been with KPA for nine years, described their victory as the greatest day in his volleyball career.
“Our persistent, hard work and discipline have paid dividends. Improved player welfare and the ample time given to train unleashed the best in us. Our coaches have been awesome,” said Omollo.
“The ship is now on the high seas. We shall dominate for many years to come,” declared Omollo.
Meanwhile, Kenya Pipeline retained the Women’s National League title after beating Kenya Prisons 2-1 in their final play-offs series.
The Oilers won the decisive Game Three 3-0 (25-22, 25-23, 25-19) at Kasarani to claim their 15th league victory.
