Kenya Cup: What a sweet feeling for Kabras Sugar

Kabras fans cheer their team with Isikuti songs in their match against KCB. [Benjamin Sakwa, Standard]

In the lush, verdant landscapes of Kakamega, where the air is sweet with the scent of sugar cane, a rugby dynasty has been forged in the kilns of determination, skill, and an undying love for the rugby game.

Kabras Sugar RFC, the pride of Kakamega, has once again showcased its dominance on the Kenyan rugby scene by clinching the 2024 Kenya Cup title in a spectacular fashion, thrashing the formidable KCB 29-5.

In fact, Kabras whitewashed KCB without their talisman Derrick Ashiundu who is the Kenya Cup top try scorer and Fijian-born Kenyan international halfback Jone Kubu who were both out injured.

Kabras players celebrate with the Kenya Cup title. [Benjamin Sakwa, Standard]

This victory wasn’t just another win; it was a historic achievement that saw Kabras Sugar etch its name alongside the legends of Kenyan rugby, joining the ranks of KCB, Impala, Nondescripts, and Kenya Harlequin as the only clubs to complete a three-peat in the history of the local league.

What makes Kabras Sugar’s triumph even more remarkable is their journey throughout the 2023-2024 season, where they remained unbeaten, winning all their matches during the regular season and playoffs.

This feat of winning the Kenya Cup unbeaten for the second season running is a testament to the club’s unwavering commitment to excellence, determination, and strategic prowess on the rugby field.

Kabras fans cheer their team with Isikuti songs in their match against KCB. [Benjamin Sakwa, Standard]

On the day of victory, the air in Kakamega was electrified with the sound of Isikuti Folk songs, as thousands of fans played drums and sang traditional Luhya victory anthems, creating a festive atmosphere that celebrated not just a win, but the spirit of unity and love for sports in Kenya.

The performances of Kenya Sevens stars Brian Tanga, Kevin Wekesa, Walter Okoth, and South African international Ntabeni Dukisa were instrumental in this victory, showcasing a level of skill and teamwork that left no doubt about Kabras Sugar’s dominance.

Kabras captain George Nyambua, who also leads the nationalteam Kenya Simbas, reflected on what made the team unbeatable this season.

“Our tactics were precise; we knew we had to play a smart game. By forcing KCB into mistakes with our territorial kicks, we were able to secure three crucial tries in the first half. These tries set the tone for the rest of the match, and ultimately, won us the game,” said Nyambua.

His words underscored a strategic depth and a level of preparation that rivals could not match.

Kabras Sugar's Walter okoth (center) is tackled by KCB players Bob Muhati and Vinctent Onyala. [Benjamin Sakwa, Standard]

The victory, according to Nyambua, was a result of hard work, dedication, and a shared vision among the players and fans alike, “This win means everything to us; it’s a reward for our fans’ unwavering support and a testament to the brotherhood we share as a team.”

Kabras Sugar’s journey to the pinnacle of Kenyan rugby has been underpinned by a robust development program spearheaded by head coach Carlos Katywa.

The program focuses on age-group recruitment, mentorship, scholarships, and partnerships, including an incubation center that has been pivotal in transitioning Kabras into a rugby powerhouse.

"Our development programs are the backbone of our success. They have allowed us to nurture talent from the grassroots level, ensuring a steady influx of skilled players who are ready to uphold the club's high standards," said the South African tactician.

Kabras fans cheer their team in their match against KCB. [Benjamin Sakwa, Standard]

Sponsored by West Kenya Sugar Company, under the leadership of Jaswant Rai, Kabras Sugar has now secured four Kenya Cup titles and reached nine consecutive Kenya Cup finals from 2015 to date, missing out only in 2020 due to the season's cancellation amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

This record of consistency and excellence is unmatched, making Kabras not just the best rugby football club in Kenya today but a beacon of success that inspires upcoming players and teams across the nation.

The victory of Kabras Sugar RFC in the 2024 Kenya Cup is a story of resilience, strategic brilliance, and community spirit.

It is a testament to the club's commitment to not just winning games, but also nurturing talent and promoting a love for rugby across Kenya.

As Kabras Sugar continues to dominate the Kenyan rugby scene, they're not just winning titles; they're building a legacy that will inspire generations to come.

="mailto:[e-mail]">[e-mail]<

Kabras Sugar

2024 Kenya Cup champions

Coach-Carlos Katywa

Captain-George Nyambua

Achievements

2016 Kenya Cup champions

2022 Kenya Cup champions

2023 Kenya Cup champions

2024 Kenya Cup champions

Kabras Sugar Kenya Cup final squad.

1 Emmanuel Otieno 2. Eugene Sifuna 3. Asuma Mugerwa 4. David Bunduki 5. Brian Juma 6. George Nyambua (C) 7. Kelvin Wekesa 8. Gabriel Adero 9. Brian Tanga 10. Barry Robinson 11. Lamec Ambetsa 12. Walter Okoth 13. Bryceson Adaka 14. Alfred Orege 15. Ntabeni Dukisa Reserves: 16. Teddy Akala 17. Edward Mwaura 18. Ephraim Oduor 19. Hillary Odhiambo 20. William Mwanjii 21. Patrick Lumumba 22. Jeanson Misoga 23. Brian Mutua