Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) reaffirmed its reputation as a sporting powerhouse by dominating in the regional East African University Games held from December 16-20, 2024 at the Lake-side based Maseno University.

Competing against 39 universities from East Africa, JKUAT delivered a spectacular performance, bagging an impressive collection of 10 golds 12 silver and 11 bronze medals. This saw the university rank as the fourth-best overall and the top public university in Kenya, outsmarting her rivals in during the week-long competitions.

JKUAT athletes participated in a range of disciplines which included athletics, badminton, chess, karate, scrabble, swimming, table tennis, taekwondo, and tennis. Their presence in the categories underscored JKUAT’s reservoir of talent and commitment to excellence.

One of the standout moments was the gold medal wins in chess, led by Ladies’ Chess Captain, Juliet Njoki. A 3rd-year Actuarial Science student, Njoki demonstrated remarkable skill and resilience throughout the tournament. Her final match, a high-stakes battle of wits, culminated in a nail-biting victory.

“The final match was incredibly tense—it felt like an eternity—but we pulled through,” Njoki recalled.

“This win is about more than individual skill. It’s a reflection of teamwork, dedication, and the support we received from the entire JKUAT community. Above all, I give glory to God and trust those who follow will sustain this legacy.”

Beyond chess, JKUAT’s teams put on a stellar show in other sports, with athletes consistently making a podium finish. The karate and swimming teams earned notable praise for their medal-winning performances, while taekwondo and athletics showcased the university’s depth of rare talent in technical and endurance-based disciplines.

Dr. Waweru Kamaku, JKUAT’s Director of Sports, lauded the athletes for their remarkable achievements.

“This year’s East African Games have been a resounding success for JKUAT. Our athletes have once again proven their mettle, showcasing not only their skill but also the discipline and hard work that define our institution,” he said.

Dr. Kamaku credited the success to the university’s investment in sports facilities and support programs. “We believe in nurturing holistic individuals who excel in all spheres. Our success is the result of a shared vision between the athletes, coaches and the university management,” he added.

The East African University Games offered an opportunity for JKUAT to not only compete but to underscore its reputation as a sporting hub at national and regional level.