Kenyan youth boxing their way to glory

Kenya is famed the world over when it comes to athletics. Ever since the country started participating in the Olympic Games in 1956, its athletes have brought home honor after honor, especially in track and field events.

However, a new sport has taken root and is quietly excelling in a most unexpected place. At the Kayole II Social Hall and Community Center in an informal settlement of Nairobi, a determined team of sportsmen has been practicing Muay Thai, a combat sport originating in East Asia, as well as Mixed Martial Arts.

Despite a myriad of challenges exacerbated by a global pandemic, the fighters have stuck to their strict training regime and have managed to win several international and local titles. In addition, they have been able to help steer youth away from crime, which previously plagued Kayole Township.

Gilbert Miruka, the resident coach at the community center,is a bodybuilder by trade. But he was introduced to Thai boxing and MMA after meeting with Fabiano Agali, a coach from Nairobi's Colosseum Fitness Center. Miruka took up the sport, and together they introduced it to the township.