KAKAMEGA, KENYA — Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Kakamega County has successfully concluded its Coaching Introductory Course, with 90 aspiring and practicing coaches trained across three cohorts held between 16th and 30th August 2026.
The programme, aimed at strengthening football development at the grassroots, was conducted at Murhanda Senior School and Central Comprehensive School, Mumias, bringing together coaches from different parts of Kakamega County.
The course was facilitated by FIFA/CAF Instructor Fred Serenge, who took participants through fundamental coaching principles, player development, training organization, technical aspects of the game and the responsibilities of a modern football coach.
Mudembei: Coaches Are the Foundation of Football Development
Speaking during the programme, FKF Kakamega Chairman Jeff Mudembei emphasized the importance of investing in coaches as the Federation continues to build a sustainable football development structure across the county.
“If we want to develop good players and competitive teams, then we must first develop good coaches. This course is an important investment in the people who are going to shape the next generation of footballers in Kakamega.”
Mudembei challenged the newly trained coaches to put their knowledge into practice and become ambassadors of good football development within their communities.
“We do not want this training to end with certificates. We want to see the knowledge acquired here translated into better training sessions, better player development and better football structures in our clubs, academies and schools.”
Fred Serenge: Learning Must Continue
FIFA/CAF Instructor Fred Serenge, who led the training, encouraged the participants to view the introductory course as the beginning of their coaching journey rather than its conclusion.
“Coaching is a continuous learning process. What we have done here is to give these coaches a strong foundation, but they must continue learning, observing, asking questions and improving their practice every day.”
Serenge also urged the coaches to place player development at the centre of their work.
“A coach is not simply someone who wants to win matches. A good coach develops people and players. The results will come when we create the right environment for players to learn, improve and enjoy the game.”
Balala: Taking Coaching Education to the Grassroots
FKF Kakamega Vice Chairman Ramadhan Balala noted that increasing the number of trained coaches would strengthen football structures across the county.
“Our grassroots football is full of talent, but talent needs guidance. By increasing the number of trained coaches, we are ensuring that young players receive better technical direction and opportunities to develop their potential.”
Balala encouraged the graduates to share the knowledge gained with other football practitioners in their communities.
Wangalwa: A New Chapter for the Coaches
FKF Kakamega Secretary General Rajab Wangalwa described the completion of the three cohorts as an important milestone in the Federation’s efforts to professionalize grassroots football.
“Today marks the beginning of a new chapter for these coaches. We encourage them to use this opportunity responsibly and to become agents of positive change in the football environments where they work.”
He further emphasized the importance of discipline, integrity and respect for football structures.
Lugalia: Investing in Football’s Future
FKF Kakamega Treasurer Fred Lugalia highlighted the broader value of coaching education to the county’s football ecosystem.
“When we invest in coaches, we are investing in the future of football. Every trained coach has the potential to influence hundreds of players over the course of their coaching journey.”
Karanga: Building a Stronger Coaching Network
FKF Kakamega CEO Simon Karanga said the Federation will continue creating opportunities for coaches to acquire knowledge and progress through the coaching pathway.
“Our objective is to build a strong network of coaches across Kakamega who understand modern football and can effectively develop players at every level. These 90 coaches are now part of that growing football development network.”
Karanga also called on the graduates to remain active in coaching and to pursue further qualifications as opportunities become available.
Hon. Shilosio: Community Support for Football
Speaking as a local leader, Murhanda Ward MCA Hon. Shilosio welcomed initiatives that bring football education and development opportunities closer to communities.
“Football brings our communities together and gives young people an opportunity to discover their abilities. Supporting coaches means supporting the young people they are going to guide, mentor and develop.”
He expressed his appreciation to FKF Kakamega for bringing the coaching programme to the local community and encouraged stakeholders to continue supporting grassroots football initiatives.
90 Coaches Trained, Three Cohorts Completed
The successful completion of the three cohorts brings the total number of coaches trained through the programme to 90, representing a significant step in expanding the pool of trained football coaches in Kakamega County.
The programme also demonstrated the importance of collaboration between FKF Kakamega, coaching instructors, host institutions, local leadership, clubs, academies and other football stakeholders.
FKF Kakamega expressed its appreciation to FIFA/CAF Instructor Fred Serenge, Murhanda Senior School, Central Comprehensive School, Mumias, the participating coaches, Federation officials, Hon. Shilosio, and all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the programme.
As the 90 newly trained coaches return to their respective clubs, academies, schools and community football programmes, FKF Kakamega expects them to apply the principles acquired during the course and continue advancing their coaching education.
The Federation remains committed to expanding coaching opportunities across the county and building a stronger pathway for coaches, players and football stakeholders.
90 coaches trained. Three cohorts completed. One united mission — developing better coaches and building the future of football in Kakamega County.
FKF Kakamega
Developing Football. Empowering Coaches. Building the Future.
The Three Cohorts
