Nfl Flag - Youth Chmapionship Cairo- June 20-23

History made in Cairo.

Kenya’s flag flew high in Cairo this June as Green Edgewood Academy, representing Team Kenya Under-13, made history by finishing as first runners-up in the Inaugural NFL Flag Youth Continental Championship. The tournament, held in Egypt, featured top youth flag football teams from across the continent, and Kenya’s young athletes proudly proved that they belong on the global stage. 

 

This incredible journey began back in September 2024, when the Kenya Federation of American Football (KFAF) hosted the second edition of the National Primary Schools Flag Football Championship at JKUAT Sports Grounds. The competition featured both Under-15 (boys and girls) and Under-12 (mixed-gender) categories. Green Edgewood Academy emerged champions in the U12 division and, as a result, earned the prestigious opportunity to represent Kenya in the continental tournament. 

 

The pathway to Cairo was paved with vision and partnerships. KFAF President Mr. George Alwanga met with NFL FLAG representatives in Lausanne, Switzerland, during the IFAF Congress, where he shared the success of Kenya’s pilot flag football program launched in April 2023 with NFL International support. With plans to host youth continental championships Kenya was considered due to its game development and existing partnership with NFL international.

 

 “Coming this far with such a new and exciting sport is a huge milestone for us in Kenya,” said Mr. Alwanga. “My role is to seek opportunities for our athletes. While it would have been incredible to bring the trophy home, we will be back stronger. I encourage  primary schools both public and private  and teachers to adopt this dynamic sport. Let learners explore.”

 

Kenya’s Road to the Final 

Team Kenya played a thrilling round of pool matches:

• Kenya 2 – Egypt 0 (2-point safety by captain Owen) 

• Kenya 13 – Nigeria 0 (2 touchdowns, 1-point conversion by Daniel Kinyanjui and Petro Njuguna)

 • Kenya 7 – Egypt 7 (Touchdown and conversion by each team by Petro Njuguna) 

• Nigeria 0 - Kenya 6 (1 touchdown, no conversion Isaac Gitau the youngest) 

 

Kenya topped the pool, finishing first overall and advancing to the final, where they faced tournament hosts Egypt once more. Despite a spirited effort, Kenya fell short by just one touchdown (6–0), securing second place overall. 

 

Awards and Recognition

 • Daniel Njuguna was named Overall Tournament MVP, recognized for his game-winning contributions. 

 Daniel Njuguna- Was awarded Tournament MVP. He played as quarterback, running back and also a defensive rusher. " I love this game, from the time we have been training I could see I was faster than the group, so coming here I wanted to show the world what I'm capable off. Happy to be MVP of the tournament" 

 

• Petro Kariuki earned Team MVP for key plays that turned the tide in crucial moments. 

• Both awards were presented by NFL FLAG representatives. 

Head Coach Moses Waweru, who led the team with passion and discipline, praised the squad: “We came out with a solid team full of character and infectious positivity. They showed out on the field and quickly became the fans’ favorite. Back home, I urge parents let your child play NFL Flag as a sports.” 

 

Team captains.

 Owen Gachinga shared: “I’m happy I got to play NFL Flag. It was my first time on a plane, the people were nice to us , I found out Cairo is hot than Kenya.” 

Girls’ captain Abie Amani added: “I’m so grateful for this opportunity. We visited the pyramids and stayed in a nice hotel. I don’t think there’s another sport I’d rather play than NFL Flag.”

 

 What’s Next? 

As Kenya awaits news on the 2026 edition of the youth championship, KFAF is expanding its reach and inviting schools across the country to join the movement. We already have under 15 tournaments July- August. As for under 12, we will hold it early next year so as the athletes that are age borderline don’t miss out on the opportunity. “This sport is growing fast,” said Mr. Alwanga. “We’re grateful to the NFL International, and to our partners at the Ministry of Sports and Ministry of Education for their support.”

 

Flag football for seniors 

This is a sport played at the university and pro level. September will kick off KFAF Circuit league- second edition which emcompases both Men and women category. In addition to expanding to other regions like Rift valley and central.. We also have the East Africa Championship later this year November -December where Kenya travels to uganda and vice versa. Dates and venue to be announced. 

How to Get Involved 

Primary Schools both public and private interested in introducing flag football programs can contact the KFAF national office via 0714 242 839/0704394089/0116422809 and sign-up below

 

Click here Primary schools NFL FLAG sign up form 

 

Kenya has proven it can compete with the best and this is just the beginning. The future of flag football is bright, inclusive, and proudly Kenyan.

 

Special Thanks

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Green Edgewood Academy for their unwavering support to the learners, and to Mr. Amos Kirimo, Head of Sports and Safeguarding Officer, for his dedicated role.

We also thank the Ministry of Education and the Directorate of Children Services for facilitating the team's travel clearance, and the Ministry of Sports for their continued support.

A special thank you to NFL International for providing this incredible opportunity, and to KFAF, under the leadership of Mr. George Alwanga, for spearheading the development of flag football in Kenya.

It is truly remarkable what has been accomplished through the collaboration of all these partners