Kenyan Deaf swimmer Ali Hamadi Juma is ready to make waves at the Tokyo 2025 Summer Deaflympics, which kick off this Saturday.
At just 25 years old, the Kwale-born athlete is part of Kenya’s historic first-ever Deaflympics swimming team, marking a major milestone for the country’s sporting journey.
Hamadi, an alumnus of Kwale School for the Deaf, has been training intensively for three weeks at the Kasarani Aquatic Stadium under the guidance of veteran coach Irene Kerubo — and his confidence couldn’t be higher.
“We’ve trained very hard, and I now feel energised and ready for the Deaflympics,”
Hamadi said.
“Our coach has really helped us improve not just in swimming skills, but also in confidence. We’re ready to compete.”
Hamadi will take part in four events — the 50m backstroke, 100m breaststroke, 50m breaststroke, and 50m freestyle. Tokyo will be his second international outing, following his debut at the 2023 World Deaf Swimming Championships in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Though he didn’t medal in Argentina, Hamadi says that experience gave him valuable lessons.
“I was disappointed with my performance in Argentina, but I learned a lot. That motivated me to work harder, and now I’m ready to give it my all in Tokyo.”
Coach Kerubo is equally optimistic:
“Hamadi has improved tremendously. His determination, focus, and energy are unmatched. We expect great things from him at the Deaflympics.”
Hamadi first learned to swim at the age of 10, along the beaches of the Indian Ocean. His biggest supporter has been his father, Hamadi Rehema, who constantly reminds him that his effort will not only bring pride to Kenya but also secure his future.
“My father keeps encouraging me to make it to the podium,”
Hamadi said.
“He reminds me that medals come with government cash rewards that could change my life.”
As Hamadi dives into Tokyo 2025, he carries the hopes of his family, his county, and the entire nation — determined to prove that Kenyan swimmers can shine on any stage.
