As preparations for the CKC Camporee in Nanyuki gather momentum, one figure stands at the intersection of two worlds: national sporting glory and faith-based youth leadership.
Parin Nasimiyu Simiyu, captain of Kenya’s national women’s netball team, the Divas, will lead the Ruiru Staff Training College Pathfinder Club at the upcoming Camporee, even as she spearheads the national squad’s charge for a historic Africa Netball Cup title on home soil.
Camporee Details
The CKC Camporee will be held from 6th to 13th December 2026 at Laikipia Youth Camp in Nanyuki, Laikipia County.
The week-long event will bring together Pathfinder clubs from across the region for a programme focused on faith, fellowship, outdoor adventure and personal growth.
Leading the Divas’ Continental Charge
The 2026 Africa Netball Cup, set for 19th to 26th September at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, represents Kenya’s most significant opportunity to end its wait for a continental title and secure qualification for the 2027 Netball World Cup in Sydney.
Simiyu has expressed confidence in the team’s preparations under Zimbabwean coach Tapiwa Chirenda, who is working alongside local trainers.
“So far, preparations have been excellent under our Zimbabwean coach, who is working alongside local Kenyan trainers. The work they are doing is very good. We thank the government for allowing us to train at Kasarani and providing a fitness trainer and gym sessions, which have really helped us. This time, we believe the tables will turn.”
Kenya opens its campaign against Nigeria on 19th September at 7pm in Pool A, which also includes South Africa, Malawi and Namibia.
Only the gold and silver medallists will secure tickets to the 2027 Netball World Cup.
Mentoring Pathfinders Through Sport
Beyond her national duties, Simiyu embodies the Pathfinder philosophy of mentorship through action. As a Pathfinder director, she uses her platform in sport to inspire young people to discover their God-given potential and develop skills that will serve them throughout their lives.
The Pathfinder ministry is built on the premise that children learn best by example rather than by precept. Through her leadership both on and off the court, Simiyu demonstrates how faith, discipline and excellence can work together, modelling values of teamwork, perseverance and service that resonate deeply with the Pathfinder movement’s mission to develop young people spiritually, physically and socially.
Her dual role reflects the Pathfinder commitment to mentoring the next generation through practical, hands-on experiences that build character and faith.
A Call for Prayer and Support
Speaking ahead of the tournament, Simiyu extended a heartfelt appeal to Kenyans and the Pathfinder community alike.
“We humbly request all of you to kindly pray for us to qualify. Your prayers and support mean everything to this team. We carry the hopes of a nation with us, and with God’s grace and your backing, we believe we can make history.”
The appeal resonates deeply with her dual role as a national sporting icon and a Pathfinder leader grounded in faith.
A Historic Hosting Moment
This marks the first time Kenya and the East African region have hosted an African netball championship or qualifier.
Kenya Netball Federation president Immaculate Kabutha described the event as “something very big for us in East Africa and something big for us in Kenya”.
The tournament will bring together ten nations, with Kenya seeking its first-ever qualification for the Netball World Cup.
Balancing Faith and Sport
While Simiyu’s netball commitments intensify, her role as Pathfinder director at Ruiru Staff Training College reflects a parallel dedication to youth development and spiritual mentorship, values that remain central to the Pathfinder movement.
Her story presents a powerful example of how sporting excellence and Christian youth leadership can complement each other. On the netball court, she leads the national team with determination and ambition. In Pathfinder ministry, she leads young people through faith, service, discipline and practical adventure.
Watch the Divas’ Opening Match
Simiyu and the Kenyan Divas will begin their Africa Netball Cup campaign on 19th September, shortly after the World Pathfinder Day celebration on the third Sabbath of September.
Kenya’s opening match against Nigeria will tip off at 7pm at Kasarani.
As Kenya seeks continental glory and World Cup qualification, the Pathfinder community and the wider nation are encouraged to keep Simiyu and the entire Kenyan team in prayer.
Report by Aaron Muthomi
