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In a historic move, Harriet Okach has been unanimously appointed as the new chairperson of the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU), becoming the first woman to hold the position in the organization’s 55-year history.
Okach’s appointment follows the resignation of former chairman Alexander “Sasha” Mutai on May 30, 2025. The KRU Board convened on June 5 and selected Okach to serve the remainder of the current term.
Prior to her new role, Okach served as the Director of Marketing and Commercial Affairs for the KRU, where she played a pivotal role in enhancing the sport’s visibility and securing strategic partnerships. Her tenure on the KRU Board began in 2023, during which she received the highest number of votes at the Annual General Meeting.
Okach’s experience extends beyond rugby administration. Harriet Okach previously held the position of honorary treasurer at Kisumu RFC and is a seasoned entrepreneur and communications strategist with over 15 years of experience in both the public and private sectors.
Internationally, Okach represents Kenya in World Rugby’s “Impact Beyond 2025” legacy initiative, which aims to leverage rugby for positive social change. She leads the “Unstoppable Rugby for Change” program, focusing on combating gender-based violence and promoting girl-child education through rugby.
Expressing her gratitude, Okach stated, “I’m humbled to be entrusted with this position. Thank you to the affiliates, KRU Board, and stakeholders for your support. To our secretariat and the playing component, thank you for focusing on keeping the game going in spite of all the turmoil. To our fans and all stakeholders, sports unites, so please let’s all come together in growing this game that we all love. Asante sana.”
Okach assumes leadership at a critical time for Kenyan rugby, with the national men’s team, the Kenya Simbas, preparing for the Rugby Africa Cup, and the women’s team, the Kenya Lionesses, gearing up for the 2025 Rugby Africa Women’s Cup in Madagascar.
Her appointment is seen as a significant step towards promoting gender equality in sports leadership and is expected to bring renewed focus and strategic direction to the development of rugby in Kenya.
