Patrick Lumumba, the young standout from Kabras RFC, is quickly establishing himself as a rising star in Kenyan rugby.
Following a stellar performance in the 2024 national sevens circuit, Lumumba’s dedication and talent have earned him a place in the 36-man provisional squad for the upcoming Safari 7s.
His journey, fueled by hard work, family support, and insightful coaching, continues to inspire those who follow his progress.
Now, with his sights set on even greater achievements, Patrick Lumumba is prepared to make his mark in Kenya’s rugby scene.
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The Kenya Rugby Union recently announced its squad for the Safari 7s, and Lumumba’s inclusion has sparked excitement among rugby fans.
Known on the pitch as ‘Field Gun’ for his explosive power and stamina, Lumumba’s rise has been filled with highs and lows, but his perseverance and growth have shaped him into one of the country’s most promising talents.
Patrick Lumumba’s journey through the 2024 sevens circuit wasn’t without its challenges. His early performances were less than what he had hoped for, but with determination and guidance from his coach, Edwin Achayo, he was able to turn things around.
“At the start of the circuit, I would rate myself at about 50%, but by the time we reached Prinsloo, I was performing at around 90%,” Patrick Lumumba revealed. His steady improvement was a result not only of physical effort but also of a shift in mentality, emphasizing patience and discipline.
In rugby sevens, where split-second decisions can define a match, Patrick Lumumba realized the importance of being patient and calculating. “In sevens rugby, you need to be accurate with your moves. Don’t rush because you want to achieve too much at once,” he explained.
This lesson helped him stay focused on his long-term goals, even when setbacks, like missing out on selection for the Kenya Shujaa and Simbas teams, weighed heavily on him.
“When I didn’t make it, I was disappointed, but my friends encouraged me to keep going. Their belief in me made all the difference,” Patrick Lumumba reflected.
A Defining Moment at the Christie 7s
One of the key moments in Lumumba’s career so far came during the Christie 7s, where he had a chance to shine in the absence of key Kabras RFC players who were away on national duty.
He seized the opportunity with both hands, delivering an exceptional performance in the quarterfinal match against KCB, which Kabras won 12-7.
“I knew we had a good chance of winning, but I still pushed myself to give my best,”Patrick Lumumba recalled. The victory was a turning point, boosting his confidence and proving that he could rise to the occasion even in the face of stiff competition.
Kabras RFC went on to claim the Christie 7s title, and Lumumba’s contribution was vital to the team’s success. With several star players away representing Kenya at the Olympics, Lumumba took on a leadership role and helped guide his team to glory.
Throughout his rugby journey, Lumumba credits his family and coach Edwin Achayo for their unwavering support. “My family is my rock, and Coach Achayo has been there for me whenever I needed guidance,” Patrick Lumumba said. Their encouragement has helped him navigate the ups and downs of a career filled with challenges.
During moments of self-doubt, Lumumba found strength in his faith and the belief that hard work would eventually pay off. “I had to trust in God and keep pushing, even when things didn’t go my way,” he shared.
This strong support system has been a crucial factor in Lumumba’s development, helping him stay grounded and focused on his ambitions. As he prepares for the next stage of his career, Patrick Lumumba is determined to keep improving and learning, especially in critical areas such as aerial ball handling.
With a spot in the Kenya Sevens provisional squad for Safari 7s, Lumumba is more motivated than ever to continue his upward trajectory. He understands that every level of competition requires new skills and continuous growth. “You can always improve, no matter how good you think you are. I’m committed to learning every day,” Patrick Lumumba emphasized.
His ultimate dream is to represent Kenya Shujaa on the international stage, and he is confident that his hard work and persistence will help him achieve that goal. With his inclusion in the Safari 7s squad, Lumumba is one step closer to making that dream a reality.
Patrick Lumumba’s rugby journey began at Koyonzo Boys before he joined Kabras RFC in 2019. His debut came in 2021 against Blak Blad, marking the start of a promising career. Since then, he has steadily climbed the ranks, earning recognition for his impressive performances both locally and regionally.
