Kisii Rugby Club has unveiled a three-year plan to return to the Kenya Cup, according to chairman Bob Onchong’a.
The club, which will feature in the KRU Championship for the 2025/2026 season after five years in the KRU Nationwide, aims to reach the play-offs.
Kisii were relegated from the Kenya Cup in the 2017/18 season. They earned promotion back to the second tier after edging out NYS Spades 25-24 in the Nationwide final.
Kisii will open their season against South Coast Pirates at Seacrest Grounds in Diani, Kwale County, on November 22. Onchong’a said the team is fully prepared for the challenge.
“The boys have stepped up their pre-season. Their commitment, passion, and discipline over the past few months have been remarkable. We are eager to showcase our growth on the pitch,” he noted.
The team has been training at Nyabururu Community Grounds, on the outskirts of Kisii town, from Monday to Friday.
“We dedicate Fridays to bonding and prayers, a tradition that continues to strengthen our unity and discipline as a team,” added the chairman.
Onchong’a said the technical bench will be unveiled once contract negotiations conclude.
“However, I can confidently say that the team is in good hands and the structures being set up are designed to sustain long-term growth,” he remarked.
They are in advanced talks with several corporate partners for sponsorship deals of between three and five years.
“The goal is to secure the club’s long-term stability and sustainability. The partnerships will enhance player welfare and logistics and ensure the club remains a competitive and well-structured organisation for years to come,” he said.
However, he is concerned with the potential departure of two key players, Walter Aiko and Lenny Abiero, who are keen to return to their parent club, Kisumu RFC.
Kisii have already signed four new players: Emmanuel Kiptoo, Meshack Saruni, Andrew Peter and John Omingo.
Onchong’a confirmed that the club is now fully registered and compliant with the Sports Act 2013, marking what he termed as “a new era of governance, accountability, and growth.” An intensive membership drive is underway to attract players, fans, alumni and supporters.
“We want to strengthen our community base and broaden participation in the club’s future. We want everyone who loves the game to be part of the journey,” he said.
by ANGWENYI GICHANA
