On Friday, the Kenya Footballers Welfare Association (KEFWA) held a graduation ceremony for its members who recently completed the FIFA/FKF coaching course held in Nairobi, Kenya.

The event was attended by prominent football figures, including former Harambee Stars goalkeeper Francis Onyiso, Moses Odhiambo, Ezekiel Odera, Anne Apondi, Lucy Njeri, Hussein Mohamed Shabban, Kevin Olang, Diana Washera, and Bungoma Queens midfielder Joanne Wanjala.

In his speech, KEFWA President James Situma congratulated the members for their incredible efforts in pursuing alternative career-enabling opportunities that would empower them even after their football careers were over.

“As KEFWA, we are committed to supporting our members in their pursuit of education and career development opportunities. This graduation event is a celebration of the incredible accomplishments of our players who were determined to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact on the football industry in Kenya,” Situma said.

Francis Onyiso, one of the graduates and a renowned former Harambee Stars goalkeeper, shared his gratitude to KEFWA for offering the education opportunity to its members. He explained that he had gained valuable knowledge and skills from the coaching course and was now focused on how far his coaching career could go.

“I reached out to KEFWA when I heard they were offering an education opportunity for their members. I’m very grateful for their consideration since I’ve learned a lot from this coaching course, and now my focus is on how far I can take my strides in coaching,” noted Onyiso.

On her part, Bungoma Queens midfielder Joanne Wanjala was also full of gratitude for the opportunity, revealing that the coaching course had transformed her from a player to a certified team coach. She also expressed hope that the skills and knowledge gained from the course would help her build a better career and improve the status quo of women’s football in Kenya.

Moses Odhiambo was equally excited about completing the coaching course, noting that he was eager to put the skills, knowledge, and training gained from the course into practice. He expressed his hope that he could positively impact the football industry in Kenya.

The 10-day course enabled participants to learn about the basics of football coaching, including organizing and leading training sessions, player development, and match preparation. With members having been able to develop their skills and knowledge in football coaching through this valuable training, it will help them achieve success both on and off the field.