Kenya has officially joined the global Pass It Back community after certifying 20 new rugby and life-skills coaches, the first-ever cohort to complete the programme in the country.
The achievement marks a significant step in strengthening the reach of the Pass It Back model, a globally respected initiative that uses rugby as a tool to equip young people with essential life skills. The four-day training, which wrapped up on Tuesday evening, brought together aspiring community coaches from across the Western region, building their capacity to deliver safe, structured and values-driven rugby sessions.
With this certification, Kenya becomes the newest member of a growing international network that includes unions from Madagascar, South Africa, Malawi, Türkiye, Laos, the Philippines and several others who have shaped the movement over the last decade.
Speaking to Two5four after the completion of the training, Pass It Back Training Lead Bridgit Siantei praised the passion and dedication shown by the new coaches.
“This is a special moment for Kenya. These 20 coaches represent the beginning of a powerful journey, using rugby not just to play, but to teach, inspire and transform communities. Pass It Back has arrived, and Kenya is ready,” she said.
She added that the skills gained during the programme will go a long way in helping the coaches inspire positive change, mentor young people and become role models in their communities, all contributing to meaningful social impact.
The programme has already begun taking root. Earlier this month, the team held a coach recruitment and onboarding session before officially launching Pass It Back activities at Kiavagala Primary School in Vihiga County, where the newly certified coaches have started delivering T1 rugby and life-skills sessions.
Their early work is laying the foundation for Kenya’s first full Pass It Back season, set to roll out across multiple communities. After this, the coaches are expected to commence player recruitment as the programme continues to gain momentum.
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