As the year draws to its close, Kiambu Aquatics pauses in gratitude and reflection. We extend our profound appreciation to every stakeholder who, in ways visible and unseen, has walked with us through the currents of this season. To name each of you would be an impossible undertaking; yet be assured that your contribution—whether material, moral, or silent—occupies a distinguished place in the life and memory of this association.
At the heart of our existence stand our athletes. They are the reason Kiambu Aquatics breathes, strives, and endures. Every achievement we celebrate ultimately finds its source in their discipline, resilience, and unrelenting pursuit of excellence.
This year marked a decisive shift in our competitive footprint. We proudly recognize our athletes and officials who represented Kiambu Aquatics at the 10th Africa Aquatics Zone 3 Swimming Championships held in Kasarani. Our presence was not merely symbolic; it was felt, asserted, and respected. Where once our representation seldom extended beyond national borders, we now find ourselves firmly inscribed on the regional and international stage—a testament to growth long envisioned and now realized.
Closer to home, the Kenya Aquatics National Swimming Championships in Mombasa offered further cause for celebration. A strong contingent of our swimmers ascended the podium, securing medals and personal triumphs that signaled a watershed moment for the county. Particularly noteworthy was our foray into long-distance events, an area once viewed with hesitation but now steadily embraced. The gradual acceptance of open water swimming among our stakeholders speaks to a maturing sporting culture, one willing to explore depth as well as distance.
In this regard, we pay special tribute to Coach Monica Githinji—Executive Committee Member and Coach at Juja Preparatory and Senior School—whose steadfast advocacy for open water swimming has reshaped perceptions within the county and beyond. Her selection by Kenya Aquatics to serve as Assistant Coach at the World Aquatics Open Water Swimming Championships in Singapore stands as both personal recognition and institutional pride. The exposure and expertise she brings back enrich our collective future immeasurably.
Among the year’s landmark achievements was the acquisition of a System 7 electronic timing device, procured from Colorado at a cost exceeding KSh 3 million. This investment is not merely technological; it is philosophical—an affirmation of our commitment to precision, fairness, and global standards. We commend our technical team, led by Competition Secretary Shadrack Mutiso, for mastering its operation and integrating it seamlessly into our competitions.
Our journey this year has been strengthened by cooperation and partnership. We acknowledge Kenya Aquatics, our national federation, whose guidance—though not without challenges—has largely been that of a steady, paternal hand. Equally invaluable has been our collaboration with fellow counties and sports partners, whose shared vision has amplified our capacity to deliver on our mandate.
A crowning highlight of the year was our role as host to the largest American Swimming Coaches Association (ASCA) clinic ever held in the region, at Crawford International School. Facilitated by Olympian Coach Sarah Holman, the clinic brought together over 230 coaches from six nations, all of whom underwent intensive training and certification. Kiambu Aquatics did not merely host; we participated robustly. Our coaches emerged sharpened, enlightened, and emboldened—growth now reflected in swimmers achieving personal bests and shattering meet records.
We also acknowledge all stakeholders actively participating in the ongoing Kiambu Aquatics Swimming League 2025–2026, and we encourage those yet to join to seize the opportunity. The league, generously sponsored by Genesis Sports Limited, is infused with substantial cash prizes to be awarded at season’s end in a grand and celebratory ceremony—an initiative that elevates competition and rewards commitment.
As we look ahead, we gently but firmly emphasize the importance of timely payment of membership fees. These contributions sustain our operations and enable us to function with professionalism and continuity. We take justifiable pride in being among the few sports associations operating from a physical office with permanent professional staff—an infrastructure that ensures accountability and service.
Our gratitude extends to the Executive Committee Members, whose service is entirely voluntary yet profoundly consequential. They have gone beyond duty, offering their time, expertise, and personal resources to advance the association’s vision. Their quiet labor forms the backbone of our progress.
Finally, we offer special recognition to our valued partners: Swim Safe Kenya, Genesis Sports Limited, Aberdare Aquatics, the Kiambu County Government, Potterhouse School Runda, and, above all, our parents—whose trust, sacrifice, and unwavering support nurture the dreams that unfold in our pools.
As the festive season unfolds, we wish all our stakeholders a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year. May 2026 find you stronger, healthier, and renewed in spirit. We look forward to journeying together into an even brighter chapter.
With deep appreciation and respect,
Dr. Douglas Okatso
Hon. Secretary, Kiambu Aquatics
