Simbas Saga: Kenya's Rugby Rollercoaster! Ups, Downs & Unpaid Staff!
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Kenya's rugby scene is a mixed bag of triumphs and tribulations. While individual players like Samwel Ovwamu are making strides, the national team, the Simbas, are facing challenges both on and off the field.
Samwel Ovwamu: A Simba on the Rise
Samwel Ovwamu, a centre for the Kenya Simbas and Menengai Oilers, is steadily building his rugby career. From his early days at Vihiga Boys High School to his time at Daystar Falcons, Ovwamu's dedication is clear. He recently spent a month training in South Africa, an experience he credits with significant growth. "Playing with different clubs pushed me to grow as a player. The intensity and discipline there really challenged me in the best way," he said. Ovwamu's commitment to improvement is a positive sign for Kenyan rugby.
Simbas Fall to Algeria: A Frustrating Finish
However, the Kenya Simbas' 2025 Rugby Africa Cup campaign ended on a sour note with a 15-5 defeat to Algeria in the bronze medal match. This loss, reminiscent of their semi-final defeat to Algeria last year, highlights ongoing issues within the team. Despite a strong scrum record and disciplined penalty count, the Simbas struggled with execution. Erratic distribution and defensive misalignments proved costly.
Head coach Jerome Paarwater's substitutions injected energy into the game, but Algeria's defense held firm. Missed penalties from Algeria offered a glimmer of hope, but Kenya's own errors ultimately sealed their fate. The Simbas' persistent mistakes in the red zone throughout the tournament were a major factor in their disappointing finish.
Unpaid Staff: A Growing Concern
Adding to the Simbas' woes are reports of unpaid technical staff. This issue raises serious questions about the management and financial stability of Kenyan rugby. It's crucial that these concerns are addressed to ensure the team can focus on improving their performance on the field.
The future of Kenyan rugby hinges on addressing these challenges and fostering a supportive environment for both players and staff. While individual talent shines, a cohesive and well-supported team is essential for success.