KCB Rugby Club has announced a significant leadership change with the appointment of Oliver Mang’eni as the new acting head coach. Mang’eni, a former Kenya Simbas legend, steps into the role following the departure of Curtis Olago, whose contract expires at the end of August. This marks the end of Olago’s 13-year tenure as head coach, a period characterized by remarkable success and development for the club.
Curtis Olago’s association with KCB began in 2008 when he joined the team as a player. In 2011, he transitioned into a coaching role, where he left an indelible mark on the club’s history. Under Olago’s leadership, KCB Rugby established itself as a dominant force in the local rugby scene. His strategic acumen and dedication were instrumental in the club’s numerous victories and the overall growth of rugby in Kenya. Olago’s departure leaves behind a legacy of excellence and a strong foundation for future success.
Oliver Mang’eni, aged 36, is no stranger to KCB Rugby. Before his coaching career, Mang’eni played for the club for 12 years, from 2010 until he retired at the end of the 2022 Kenya Cup season. His extensive experience on the field, combined with his recent role as the lineout coach for KCB, makes him a well-suited successor to Olago. Mang’eni’s tenure as a player was marked by numerous achievements, including his participation with Shujaa during the 2014/2015 season.
Japheth Achola, KCB RFC Patron, expressed confidence in Mang’eni’s ability to lead the team during this transitional period. “It’s a new dawn for the Club. We have complete faith in Oliver and believe his extensive experience and deep understanding of the club makes him the perfect candidate to lead the team at this important time,” Achola stated. He also extended his gratitude to Olago for his invaluable contributions to the club. “We thank Olago for his service to the Club. He has been instrumental in positioning KCB Rugby as a top club in the local rugby scene and has played a pivotal role in the development of the sport in the country. We wish him all the very best in his future coaching career.”
Mang’eni’s rugby career is decorated with impressive accomplishments. As a player, he won the Kenya Cup five times (2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2022) and the Enterprise Cup three times (2015, 2016, and 2017). He also secured five floodlit titles (2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2019). Known affectionately as “Olishe,” Mang’eni also led the team to two consecutive National Sevens Circuit titles in the 2013/2014 and 2014/2015 seasons. His international achievements include winning the Rugby Africa Cup in 2013, participating in the 2014 World Cup qualifiers, and playing in notable test matches against Hong Kong, Portugal, and Spain during the 2015/2016 season.
Furthermore, Mang’eni represented Kenya in the Repechage in France in 2018 and played in the Currie Cup Division 1 in 2022 under Paul Odera. His extensive experience and winning mentality will undoubtedly be assets as he takes on the new role of head coach at KCB RFC.
As KCB RFC embarks on this new chapter under Mang’eni’s leadership, the club and its supporters are optimistic about the future. Mang’eni’s appointment signals a continued commitment to excellence and growth, building on the strong foundation laid by Curtis Olago. The rugby community will be watching closely as Mang’eni brings his unique perspective and experience to guide KCB RFC to new heights.
