Kisumu RFC has announced the return of Howard Okwemba as the head coach for the upcoming 2024/25 Kenya Cup season. This decision marks a significant reunion for the coach and the team, as Okwemba previously led Kisumu RFC to Kenya Cup promotion in 2018 by securing the KRU Championship title. As the club gears up for a new season, they are counting on Okwemba’s experience and leadership to help the team maintain their position in Kenya’s top rugby league.
This reappointment comes after a challenging season for Kisumu RFC, where they narrowly avoided relegation, and now the club is looking to rebuild and advance under the guidance of their former coach. Okwemba’s return has sparked excitement within the club and its fanbase, as his prior tenure saw remarkable success. Kisumu RFC is hopeful that his leadership will usher in a new era of achievement for the team.
Okwemba’s Proven Track Record
Howard Okwemba is no stranger to Kisumu RFC. In fact, his return to the helm comes after a notable stint in 2018 when he led the club to Kenya Cup promotion by winning the KRU Championship. During his time with the team, he showcased his ability to build strong, competitive sides capable of achieving significant milestones.
His coaching experience, however, extends beyond Kisumu RFC. Okwemba has a robust coaching resume that includes head coach roles at other prominent Kenyan clubs such as South Coast Pirates, Western Bulls, and KCB. He was also an assistant coach with the Kenya Simbas, the national rugby team, bringing a wealth of top-level coaching experience back to Kisumu RFC. Okwemba’s familiarity with Kenyan rugby, both at the club and national levels, makes him a valuable asset to any team, and Kisumu RFC is thrilled to have him back.
Kisumu RFC’s Journey Since 2018
Kisumu RFC has undergone several changes since Okwemba’s departure in 2018. After achieving Kenya Cup promotion under his leadership, the team has had to navigate a series of ups and downs. Multiple coaching changes have followed, with the club bringing in various head coaches to lead the team. Brian Makalama, former Uganda 15s coach, and Lawrence Buyachi, current Menengai Oilers forwards coach, are among the coaches who have taken charge of Kisumu RFC in recent years.
Buyachi played a crucial role in helping Kisumu RFC secure its position in the Kenya Cup after taking over the team, but he eventually stepped down before the start of the season. Following Buyachi’s departure, Oscar Okaron led the team through the 7s circuit, ensuring that the team remained competitive. However, Okaron also stepped down at the end of the season, leaving the position open for Okwemba’s return.
Despite these coaching changes, Kisumu RFC managed to avoid relegation last season, a feat that many attribute to the determination and resilience of the players. Now, with Okwemba back at the helm, the club hopes to build on their recent success and continue moving forward.
What Okwemba Brings to the Table
Okwemba’s extensive coaching experience across several top clubs in Kenya positions him as a vital figure for Kisumu RFC as they prepare for the 2024/25 Kenya Cup season. His coaching philosophy focuses on developing a strong, cohesive team that can compete at the highest level. His familiarity with Kisumu RFC also gives him an advantage, as he knows the club’s culture, its challenges, and its potential.
Okwemba’s previous experience with Kisumu RFC, as well as his time spent coaching the likes of South Coast Pirates and Western Bulls, has provided him with a broad perspective on Kenyan rugby. His time as a player for KCB and his role as an assistant coach with Kenya Simbas have also helped him understand what it takes to succeed in high-pressure environments. With such an impressive resume, Okwemba brings a strategic approach to the game, focusing on both technical skills and mental fortitude.
In addition to his tactical acumen, Okwemba is known for his ability to motivate players and build team spirit. His leadership qualities were evident during his previous tenure with Kisumu RFC, and the club is optimistic that his return will reignite the team’s passion and drive.
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Kisumu RFC’s Goals for the 2024/25 Season
With Okwemba back in charge, Kisumu RFC is setting its sights on more than just avoiding relegation. The team aims to establish itself as a competitive force in the Kenya Cup, with the ultimate goal of challenging for top honors in the league. Okwemba’s leadership will be crucial in achieving this, as he will need to implement a solid game plan that leverages the strengths of the current squad while addressing any weaknesses.
Player development will also be a key focus for Okwemba and his coaching staff. By nurturing young talent and building a team that is both skilled and resilient, Kisumu RFC hopes to create a sustainable foundation for future success. The team’s management is confident that Okwemba’s experience in player development will be instrumental in shaping the next generation of rugby stars for the club.
