KRU Championship side Mombasa RFC have revealed an ambitious plan to return to the Kenya Cup by 2029.
The club’s commercial director, Teddy Ndemo, said they are not in a hurry to fight for a slot in the top-tier league as they rebuild for the future. The club was relegated from the Kenya Cup in the 2015.
“We have changed our strategy and developed a sustainable strategic plan that will see us return to the Kenya Cup by 2029... and stay there for the long haul,” said Ndemo.
The club will no longer rely on students from the Technical University of Mombasa (TUM), Pwani University and other institutions at the coast.
“For the last three years, we have taken a deliberate step to develop our own players by introducing age-grade training. Previously, we relied on players from local institutions, who always left us after completing their studies. That model was not sustainable,” he noted.
They currently have more than 10 players who graduated from the academy, while Steve Odhiambo joined Kabras Sugar, while Nahashon Mwangemi signed for Strathmore Leos.
“Having two players from our academy join Kenya Cup clubs is a plus. Mwangemi even earned a Shujaa call-up after an excellent show during the SportPesa Sevens Circuit. We want to develop a large pool of players from the coast,” said Ndemo.
Most of the academy players featured during the Sevens Circuit and gave a good account of themselves.
“But they made a couple of mistakes here and there, which was expected since they are rookies,” he added.
In their pre-season campaign, the club has played two build-up matches, beating Malindi RFC 12-11 before losing 21-10 to rivals South Coast Pirates.
“Despite losing to Pirates, there was remarkable improvement. By the time we face them in our league opener, I believe the boys will have improved,” he said.
Ndemo revealed that club captain Newton Malenya will take over as head coach following the departure of Anthony Ndegwa, while assistant coach Kevin Amiani has rejoined South Coast Pirates.
“Malenya took charge during the Sevens Circuit and will steer the ship during the 15s season,” he said.
The club recently received a major boost after sealing a three-year sponsorship deal with Mitchell Cotts Freight Kenya Limited, and Ndemo revealed that talks are at an advanced stage with TotalEnergies for an additional partnership.
