Harriet Okach has pledged to lead the Kenya Rugby Union based off three key pillars for the remaining two years of her tenure.
Harriet Okach, the newly appointed chairperson of the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU), has unveiled her vision for the future of Kenyan rugby, pledging to build on existing frameworks while emphasizing inclusivity, governance reforms, and youth development.
Okach officially took the reins from outgoing chair Alexander “Sasha” Mutai following a special board meeting held on June 5, 2025.
The board unanimously elected Okach—who previously served as KRU’s Director of Marketing and Commercial since 2023—after she garnered the highest number of votes in the internal election.
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In her inaugural "State of the Union" address, Okach struck a tone of optimism and unity, while reaffirming her commitment to the strategic plan adopted by KRU affiliates last year.
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“This transition is like a fresh chapter. It does not mean we start from scratch. We will stick to the strategic plan adopted by our affiliates last year to the letter,” said Okach.
Key Pillars: Governance, Inclusivity & Development
Central to Okach’s agenda is a renewed focus on good governance, inclusivity, and rugby development. She revealed that the union’s revised constitution has already been circulated and is pending adoption by member affiliates within the next 60 days.
“Our new constitution redistributes power from the board to stakeholders and the grassroots level. It’s a model designed to promote transparency, accountability, and decentralization. No one person will hold more power than another.”
She emphasised the need for collaboration across all rugby stakeholders—including clubs, coaches, players, sponsors, and media—to support and drive these reforms forward.
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Youth Focus: U20 Kenya Cup
One of the most notable structural changes announced by Okach is the transformation of the Eric Shirley Shield Cup into an Under-20 Kenya Cup Tournament, starting in 2026. The move aims to bridge the developmental gap for national youth team players, popularly known as Chipu.
“We noticed that our U20 team doesn't get enough playtime, largely because we depend on club call-ups. With the U20 league, we can consolidate talent and give these players a consistent platform to grow.”
Okach was also keen to highlight the importance of a functional and unified leadership within KRU. She praised the current secretariat, CEO, and Director of Rugby for their professional contributions—especially in sponsor relations and day-to-day operations.
“The wrangles have taken away from the game in the past, but today we are united as a board. Our secretariat continues to lead on operational matters, helping attract and secure sponsorships. This professionalism is key to taking our game forward.”
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A New Era for Kenyan Rugby
As the first woman to chair the Kenya Rugby Union, Okach’s elevation marks a significant milestone for gender representation in Kenyan sports leadership. Her vision promises a more modern, accountable, and inclusive rugby ecosystem.
“I pledge to anchor my leadership on collaboration, development, and integrity. We are laying the groundwork for a stronger, united rugby future in Kenya.”