Kenya Police FC has officially announced the appointment of Burundian tactician Etienne Ndayiragije as the club’s new head coach, marking a significant move to stabilize the team following a string of poor results that left the club in the relegation zone. The appointment, confirmed on Friday, November 29, comes just over a week after the dismissal of the entire technical bench led by head coach Anthony Kimani and assistant Salim Babu.
A Fresh Start for Kenya Police FC
The Kenyan top-tier side has been searching for a seasoned and capable head coach since their promotion to the FKF Premier League in 2021. The club’s management is optimistic that Ndayiragije, a former head coach of the Burundi and Tanzania national teams, will inject the expertise and leadership needed to steer the team away from the relegation zone and towards mid-table safety.
In their official statement, Kenya Police FC highlighted the significance of this appointment:
“We officially unveil Ndayiragije Etienne as Head Coach. Coach Etienne takes the reins to lead us into an exciting chapter of ambition and growth.”
The 45-year-old tactician has a proven track record, having managed top-tier clubs and national teams, and his experience is expected to bring a fresh perspective to Kenya Police FC. His immediate challenge will be to instill discipline, a winning mindset, and tactical prowess into a squad that has struggled to find form this season.
Update/
we officially unveil Ndayiragije Etienne as Head Coach.
Welcome home@betikaKe @police_sacco @748AirServices @DTBduo pic.twitter.com/dUZBQlV5wy— KENYA POLICE FC (@kenyapolicefc) November 29, 2024
Ndayiragije’s Managerial Experience
Etienne Ndayiragije boasts an impressive coaching career spanning over a decade. Prior to his appointment at Kenya Police FC, Ndayiragije served as the head coach of the Burundi national team from January 2023 to October 2024. His stint with Burundi ended following three consecutive losses in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, including defeats to Senegal and Burkina Faso. Despite the setback, Ndayiragije remains a respected figure in East African football circles.
Before leading Burundi, Ndayiragije had a successful tenure with Tanzania’s national team, the Taifa Stars, from 2019 to 2021. During his time there, he guided Tanzania to notable performances in regional competitions, bolstering his reputation as a tactician who can deliver results under pressure. He also managed Tanzanian club Azam FC, leading them to domestic success before leaving club football five years ago.
The Burundian tactician is no stranger to the Kenyan football scene, having followed the league’s progress over the years. His appointment represents a return to club football, and Kenya Police FC will be counting on his ability to motivate players, implement effective strategies, and achieve crucial wins.
A New Era for Kenya Police FC
The decision to part ways with the previous coaching staff was driven by the club’s poor performance in the FKF Premier League. Currently sitting 17th in the table, Kenya Police FC is in a precarious position and must secure points quickly to avoid relegation. The management’s decision to bring in Ndayiragije reflects their ambition to transform the team into a competitive force.
The club’s statement further emphasized its aspirations:
“Renowned for his expertise and winning mindset, Coach Etienne’s appointment signals our commitment to achieving excellence both on and off the pitch.”
Ndayiragije’s first task will be a crucial league fixture against AFC Leopards on Sunday, December 1. The match will be a litmus test for the new coach, as he attempts to deliver an immediate impact against one of Kenya’s football giants.
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Challenges Ahead for Ndayiragije
While Ndayiragije brings an impressive résumé, the task ahead is formidable. Kenya Police FC has struggled with inconsistency, poor defensive organization, and a lack of creativity in the attacking third. To succeed, the Burundian tactician must address these weaknesses and instill a sense of unity and determination within the squad.
Key areas of focus for Ndayiragije will include:
- Improving Team Morale: The recent string of poor results has undoubtedly affected player confidence. Ndayiragije will need to rebuild morale and foster a positive environment within the dressing room.
- Tactical Discipline: Kenya Police FC has conceded avoidable goals this season, highlighting the need for better defensive organization. Ndayiragije’s ability to structure the backline and instill tactical discipline will be critical.
- Maximizing Squad Potential: With a mix of experienced players and young talent, the squad has the potential to perform better. Ndayiragije must identify the best combinations and maximize the team’s strengths.
- Building Momentum: The next few matches will be crucial for Kenya Police FC’s survival. Wins against direct rivals in the relegation battle could prove decisive.
A Strategic Appointment
The appointment of Etienne Ndayiragije marks a turning point for Kenya Police FC. The club has made it clear that they are not content with mediocrity and are determined to establish themselves as a formidable force in Kenyan football. Ndayiragije’s experience in managing national teams and top clubs positions him as the ideal candidate to lead this transformation.
Fans will be eager to see how the new head coach adapts to the FKF Premier League and whether he can bring immediate improvements to the team’s performance. With the support of the management and the players, Ndayiragije has the opportunity to guide Kenya Police FC to safety and lay the groundwork for long-term success.
Looking Ahead
Kenya Police FC’s match against AFC Leopards on Sunday will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. It will provide the first glimpse of Ndayiragije’s tactical approach and his ability to inspire the team. A positive result could set the tone for the remainder of the season, as the club looks to climb out of the relegation zone and establish itself as a competitive outfit in the FKF Premier League.
