A New Chapter in Kenyan Swimming Begins

Kenya’s elite swimming talent is headed to the global stage as the 2025 World Aquatics Championships kick off in Singapore from July 26 to August 22. This year marks a double milestone: the 22nd edition of the Championships and the first time Southeast Asia has hosted the event. For Kenya, it's more than just another competition—it’s a statement of intent.

Team Kenya is fielding four of its sharpest competitors: Sarah Mose, Haniel Kudwoli, Stephen Ndegwa, and Imara Thorpe. Each of them has not only excelled nationally but has also proven themselves under pressure, making them worthy contenders on the world stage.

Sarah Mose: Kenya’s Gold Standard

Sarah Mose is arriving in Singapore not just to participate—but to dominate. After a stellar showing at the 2025 KA National Swimming Championships, where she bagged four gold medals, Mose is swimming at peak performance.

Clocking an impressive 26.10 seconds in the 50m freestyle and 33.75 in the 50m breaststroke, her sprinting form is razor-sharp. Beyond the Nationals, Mose also reached five finals at the XVI Africa Aquatic Championships, demonstrating not just speed but consistency under pressure.

Her journey from local galas to international lanes has been nothing short of meteoric—and Singapore may be where it peaks.

Haniel Kudwoli: A Champion with Momentum

Haniel Kudwoli is not only Kenya’s top-ranked swimmer this season but also one of the most decorated athletes on the team. She swept the KA Nationals with three gold medals, posting a jaw-dropping 1:05.89 in the 100m breaststroke and 24.17 in the 50m freestyle, times that have rewritten Kenya’s record books.

Her dominance isn't new. Since 2019, Kudwoli has piled up medals across national and continental events. Her sharp technique, mental edge, and relentless pace make her a swimmer to watch not just in Singapore but globally.

Stephen Ndegwa: The Veteran Sprinter

Representing Bandari Swim Club, Stephen Ndegwa brings both experience and firepower. He’s not new to the big stage and has routinely claimed top spots in sprint categories.

At the 2025 KA Nationals, Ndegwa touched the wall first in the 50m butterfly (25.55) and 100m freestyle (53.83). His past appearances in African junior finals and his status as a multiple-time national champion add a much-needed balance of maturity to this youthful squad.

For Kenya, Ndegwa represents strength in depth—and a solid chance at finals.

Imara Thorpe: The International Wildcard

Completing the quartet is Imara Thorpe, who has taken an unconventional but valuable route to the world stage. Based at Florida International University, Thorpe competes in the U.S. collegiate system and holds a national score of 743.00, currently ranking 9th in her NCAA division.

Her experience training and competing in the U.S. injects global polish into the Kenyan lineup. Technically sound, mentally seasoned, and physically prepared, Thorpe could be Kenya’s ace in the pool.

More Than Just Laps—It’s Legacy

The 2025 World Aquatics Championships aren't just a competition; they’re a proving ground. For Kenya, it’s an opportunity to signal its swimming potential to the world. With a younger generation rising and national systems beginning to align with international standards, the spotlight in Singapore is more than justified.

Whether it's medals or personal bests, Team Kenya is not here to fill lanes—they’re here to leave a mark.