Kenya has officially opened the Africa Zone 3 Boxing Championships in Nairobi, a landmark event running from October 15 to 25, 2025, marking the country’s first time hosting the tournament in over 20 years. The competition brings together top amateur boxers from across Central and Eastern Africa, offering them a crucial platform to gain international exposure and ranking points ahead of the 2026 All-Africa Games and Olympic qualifiers.
According to Citizen Digital, Kenya’s Boxing Federation President, Anthony Otieno, said the event “reflects the region’s renewed commitment to nurturing boxing talent and strengthening continental unity through sport.” The championship is taking place at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, with more than 150 boxers representing 10 countries, including Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, and Gabon.
Uganda confirmed a strong delegation of 16 boxers — 11 men and 5 women — to compete in different weight categories. The Uganda Boxing Federation (UBF) President, Moses Muhangi, told Kawowo Sports that the team’s preparation “has been intense and focused on regaining the country’s dominance in regional amateur boxing.” Uganda’s contingent includes Commonwealth bronze medalist Regan Bukira, light-welterweight hopeful Emmanuel Kyambadde, and flyweight contender Shadir Musa Bwogi, all seen as medal favorites.
Rwanda is also returning to the tournament after a seven-year hiatus, fielding a six-member squad including bantamweight Valentin Ntabanganyimana, featherweight Iranezeza Aimé, and light-welterweight Niyonzima Pacifique. The team, coached by Jean Claude Gatorano, aims to gain international experience and showcase Rwanda’s renewed commitment to boxing. “Participating in Zone 3 is a key step in building our national boxing program,” Gatorano said.
Kenya, fielding a 20-boxer squad, aims to capitalize on home advantage. National coach Benjamin Mugure noted that the Kenyan team blends experienced fighters with emerging prospects from the Hit Squad program, saying: “We want to show that Kenya can host and win at the same time. Our goal is not just medals but to re-establish Kenya as a boxing powerhouse in Africa.”
The championship also features a women’s division, reflecting the rapid growth of female boxing in Africa. Kenya’s Christine Oluoch, Uganda’s Sarah Nakanwagi, and Rwanda’s rising star Fideline Uwizeyimana are among those expected to make a strong showing. “Women’s boxing has evolved fast in this region,” said Mary Wambui, technical director for the event. “The skill level we’re seeing now is inspiring, and the federation is determined to provide equal opportunities.”
Beyond the ring, the tournament serves as a networking and development forum. Boxing officials from Zone 3 are holding meetings on athlete welfare, anti-doping education, and officiating standards. The African Boxing Confederation (AFBC) praised Kenya’s organization and infrastructure, describing the 2025 edition as “a model for future continental competitions.”
