Africa Netball has officially launched the Africa Netball Cup 2026, setting the stage for a landmark continental championship in Nairobi from 19 to 26 September.
Staged at the Kasarani Indoor Arena, the event will mark the first time Kenya hosts the competition and will bring Africa's leading netball nations together on one of the continent's most important sporting platforms.
The championship will feature men's and women's competition, with the women's event also serving as the official Netball World Cup Sydney 2027 Qualifier Africa.
South Africa and Uganda have already secured their World Cup places through the World Netball Rankings.
The next two highest-placed eligible nations in Nairobi will earn Africa's remaining qualification positions.
Participating women's teams: South Africa, Uganda, Kenya, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Zambia, Botswana, Nigeria, and Tanzania.
GROWING STRENGTH
Speaking on the launch, Africa Netball acting president, Rebekka Goagoses said the tournament reflects the sport's continued transition towards stronger competition, greater visibility and sustainable growth across the continent.
“Hosting the Africa Netball Cup in Kenya reflects the growing strength and reach of our game. This event brings together the continent's best teams, but it also carries a wider purpose: to create stronger pathways, inspire young players and position African netball for sustained success on the global stage,” said Goagoses.
For Kenya, the championship represents both a major hosting responsibility and an opportunity to build a lasting legacy through improved facilities, stronger event systems and increased national interest in the sport.
“Kenya is preparing to welcome Africa with pride and purpose. Our focus is on delivering a tournament that meets international standards while creating an experience that athletes, officials and supporters will remember.
"Hosting the Cup for the first time is an opportunity to showcase Kenya's growing netball culture and leave a lasting legacy for the sport,” said Kenya Netball President Ms. Immaculate Kabutha.
The launch begins the official countdown to eight days of continental competition, national pride and World Cup ambition, as Africa's teams prepare to take their place on the road to Sydney 2027.