Kenyan youth boxing their way to glory

Aroka said it is discouraging for fighters like him to represent his country and win accolades but get little in return or appreciation. He said just like other Kenyan athletes who get sponsorships and brand-ambassadorial deals, they deserve similar recognition for their efforts.

Mohamed Kokani, Aroka's fellow fighter and an up-and-coming coach, agrees more needs to be done in order to support their sport.

"This year has left us with debts. I personally make my living through fighting and I also double up as a personal trainer in fitness and self-defense, but I could not carry out my business because of the pandemic," Kokani said. "Despite all this, I never give up hope and I believe things will change. We have started seeing interest rise in our sport and we have received promises from sponsors and promoters, and we hope next year things will be better. Despite having received several promises before, I am personally guided by faith and that is why I do not give up."

As the new year begins, Miruka says they would be grateful if they get sponsors, both local and international, to construct a training facility. He added his team needs training equipment, like punching bags and weights. The coach, who trains his fighters on a voluntary basis, would also like to see his team get sponsorship from corporate bodies to help sustain himself and his fighters so they can fully concentrate on their sport.