In brief
The Kenya Ice Lions have been making remarkable strides in the world of ice hockey since their inception in 2016, as the first and only ice hockey team in the country. Created in Nairobi, which has an average temperature exceeding 20°C, their home rink at the Panari Hotel is the only ice rink in East and Central Africa. Captain Benjamin Mburu fondly recalls his first experience on the ice, stating, "I never imagined I could play ice hockey in Kenya." The Ice Lions recently achieved a historic milestone by becoming the fifth African team to join the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF), which opens doors for greater funding and international competition.
Established by a group of expatriates from North America, the Ice Lions faced the task of promoting a sport largely unknown in East Africa. The team, which features rollerskate enthusiasts, trains weekly due to high ice costs and limited rink space. Despite these challenges, dedicated coaching and community involvement have nurtured local interest, demonstrated during their recent exhibition tournament victory in South Africa. International experiences, such as a transformative trip to Canada, have greatly impacted the Ice Lions' growth, allowing for better equipment and encouraging local recruitment. As they aim to expand by creating a female team and training younger generations, players emphasize their goal to represent Kenya at the Winter Olympics, showcasing their belief that "the Kenyan flag must fly on ice."This unique blend of courage, dedication, and community spirit continues to drive the Ice Lions' ambitions in a sport that thrives in colder climates, paving the way for a new era of ice hockey in Kenya.
