Philip Edwine Anayo Reacts to Appointment as KRU Non-Executive Director

Philip Edwine Anayo has reacted to his appointment as a Non-Executive Director (Co-opted Member) of the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU).

The appointment was confirmed by the KRU board, with his two-year term set to run from August 11, 2025, to August 10, 2027.

The Kenya Rugby Union, which is tasked with managing the game of rugby in the country and is affiliated to World Rugby and Rugby Africa, described Anayo’s appointment as an opportunity to draw from his vast knowledge and professional experience.

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Anayo's role will include serving on one of the board’s subcommittees, such as Finance and Administration, Development, Legal, Commercial, Fixtures, National Squads, or Communication & Media.

Speaking after the announcement, Anayo expressed deep appreciation for the trust placed in him by the Union.

“I am honoured to accept my appointment as a non-executive director (co-opted member) of the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) Board. It is a privilege to join the body entrusted with managing and growing the game of rugby in Kenya. I look forward to contributing my knowledge and experience in commerce and industry to support the Union’s vision and to strengthen the structures that will advance the sport at all levels," he said.

Anayo, who is currently a Director at Homeland Itoya Events, has built a strong reputation in both the business and rugby landscapes.

His company, Homeland Itoya, operates in major towns across Kenya—including Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret, and Busia—and is the main sponsor of Kisumu Rugby Football Club (KRFC).

Anayo brings to the KRU board a track record of results from his time as Chairman of Kisumu RFC between 2018 and 2020.

Under his stewardship, KRFC enjoyed stable sponsorship that enabled participation in the full National Sevens Circuit without financial strain.

“Together with my fellow board members, I am committed to building on the strong foundation of Kenyan rugby, that is, working to ensure our national teams thrive on the global stage while deepening the game’s reach and impact from grassroots communities upward,” he noted.

Anayo is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening the Union’s structures and attracting sustainable partnerships to support the game.

“I look forward to working with my fellow board members to build on the strong foundation of Kenyan rugby and take the sport to new heights. My goal is to see our national teams excel on the world stage and to grow the game from the grassroots up. I am eager to get to work,” he affirmed.

His appointment is widely viewed as a positive step for the Union, bringing both business acumen and proven rugby leadership to the table.