The Kenya Rugby Union is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul Odera as the new Director of Rugby, effective 1st February 2025. This strategic move is aimed at enhancing the development and performance of rugby across all levels in Kenya.
Paul Odera brings a wealth of experience to this role, having previously served as the Head Coach for the Kenya U20 national team, known as Chipu, where he successfully led the team to qualification for the 2019 World Rugby U20 Trophy.
His leadership in this capacity has been pivotal in nurturing young talent and promoting a competitive spirit within the team.
In addition to his role with Chipu, Odera has also been the Head Coach of the Kenya Simbas. Under his guidance, the Simbas achieved significant milestones and showcased their potential on international platforms.
Speaking on his appointment, Odera said he is excited and honoured, but also a bit apprehensive at what is a huge responsibility and herculean task he is taking up. “I look forward to achieving the three-legged African stool. (borrowed from Nobel Prize Laureate Wangari Mathai)
Pillar 1: Transformational Leadership.
Pillar 2: Science and data driven planning and decision-making.
Pillar 3: Developing a Kenyan rugby identity based on the basics done well. Focus on the details of technical, tactical, physical, and psychological.” said Odera
Furthermore, his contributions as a World Rugby Mentor and Educator have equipped him with unique insights into rugby development, making him a valuable asset to KRU’s vision for growth and excellence in Kenyan Rugby.
KRU Chairman, Sasha Mutai, expressed confidence in Odera’s capabilities, stating, “Paul Odera has done it all in Kenya Rugby, as a player, Captain and as a Coach at age grade level all the way to the National Team, the Simbas. A consummate Rugby man, I welcome him to his new position of Director of Rugby. He will be a key member of the team which will help execute the KRU Strategic Plan 2024 – 2028 which was adopted at last years AGM. I wish him all the best in his new role as we look forward to taking Kenya Rugby to unprecedented heights.”
“Paul is a very welcome addition to the Secretariat and brings his immense knowledge and experience to us. His previous role as a school teacher will particularly come in useful in our development programs and developing our pathways. We welcome him and will offer the needed support to succeed in his role.” KRU CEO Thomas Odundo added
Odera’s appointment comes at a crucial time as KRU seeks to strengthen its frameworks for player development and enhance the overall competitiveness of Kenyan rugby on both regional and global stages.
