Newly appointed Bandari head coach Charles Okere/HANDOUTNewly appointed Bandari FC head coach Charles Okere has set ambitious targets for the 2026/27 season, declaring that the Dockers will challenge for both the Sportpesa Premier League title and the Mozzart Bet Cup as he begins a new era at the Mbaraki-based club.
In an exclusive interview on Wednesday, Okere outlined an ambitious blueprint for Bandari, saying his goal is to mould the Dockers into one of the country's most formidable and consistent title contenders. "I did not come to Mombasa to participate or simply finish in a respectable position. My objective is to build a team that competes for the FKF Premier League title and the FKF Cup because a club of Bandari's stature should always be fighting for trophies," Okere said.
Bandari turned to the experienced tactician after concluding their search for a new coach following the departure of Bernard Mwalala, whose side finished 12th in the league last season.
Okere arrives with a proven pedigree, bringing eight years of success at Tusker FC, where he rose from assistant coach under Robert Matano to head coach, leading the Brewers for two seasons.
His coaching journey spans both club and international football, having steered the Harambee Starlets and built a reputation as one of Kenya's most accomplished tacticians. "Working in championship-winning environments taught me the standards required to sustain success over a long season. That is the culture I want to establish at Bandari," he said.
As Bandari gear up for pre-season, Okere has prioritised building a squad with the quality, depth and mentality needed to challenge for major silverware.
"Every player must understand the responsibility of wearing this badge. We want a disciplined, hardworking team with a winning mentality capable of competing in every competition," he added.
Fuelled by the Kenya Ports Authority's backing, Bandari are placing their faith in Okere to engineer a dramatic revival and re-establish the club as a dominant force in Kenyan football.
Fully aware of the immense expectations surrounding one of the country's most ambitious clubs, Okere said he relishes the challenge and is determined to repay the faith shown in him. "Pressure comes with ambition. The supporters expect success, and we are determined to give them a team they can be proud of," he said.
Pre-season preparations are expected to begin immediately, with the new coach focusing on improving fitness levels, tactical organisation and squad cohesion ahead of the new campaign. "Our preparations will be demanding because we want to be ready from the opening day. The goal is to build a team that plays attractive football while remaining competitive enough to challenge for honours," Okere said.
Okere’s rebuilding mission at Bandari will be backed by a revamped technical unit featuring Elvis Ayany and Patrick Gitagia as his right-hand men.
