Kenya Police FC is experiencing a renaissance, winning silverware, defying odds, and building a compelling narrative in Kenyan football. Their journey from relegation battlers to newly crowned league champions is a testament to belief, ambition, and the tireless work of coach Etienne Ndayiragije who now dreams of making history on the continental stage.
The remarkable turnaround under Ndayiragije
When Etienne Ndayiragije arrived at Kenya Police FC in November 2024, expectations were measured and hopes circumspect. The club was fighting for survival just months prior, each outing a test of nerve and spirit. But Ndayiragije brought much more than a tactical blueprint; he carried a vision of transformation, working to inspire players, staff, and the passionate supporters who had yearned for sustained success.
The result is there for all to see: Kenya Police, against the odds, are FKF Premier League champions for the first time. This achievement isn’t just a trophy for the cabinet—it’s a watershed moment for a team accustomed to swimming against the current. Under the Burundian tactician’s stewardship, the Law Enforcers have emerged as a force both respected and feared.
SJAK Award a symbol of inspiration
Ndayiragije’s impact did not go unnoticed. The coach was awarded the June SJAK/Betika Coach of the Month accolade, a prestigious recognition that carries both honor and expectation. He stands as only the second foreign tactician to claim the award this year, reaffirming that excellence transcends boundaries. Rival coaches like Nairobi United’s Nicholas Muyoti and the volleyball duo of Geoffrey Omondi and Gideon Tarus also made the shortlist, but it was Ndayiragije’s unrivaled success that won him the tribute.
The coach walked away with Ksh 100,000 and a personalized trophy, but he insists the real reward is the motivation to push even further. In his own words: “I am very happy, and coming from relegation to here, it has been God. Every team brought its intensity. There was no easy match. We approached every game like a final.” These words speak to the grit and humility that have become hallmarks of the club’s mentality.
Memorable path to the FKF Premier League crown
The statistics of Kenya Police FC’s recent campaign only tell part of this inspiring story. On June 15, the team clinched their first-ever FKF Premier League title after a nerve-wracking 1-0 victory over Shabana. Just a week later, in a symbolic end to their campaign, they drew 1-1 with Gor Mahia at Ulinzi Sports Complex, receiving a guard of honour in recognition of their achievement.
These results are more than entries into a record book. They are moments that resonate with every fan who has watched this side persevere, adapt and finally rise to the summit. Every tackle, save, and goal was a step towards rewriting history under the steady hand of Ndayiragije.
Dreaming beyond borders: the CAF Champions League challenge
But success breeds new ambitions. For Ndayiragije, the journey is far from over. Buoyed by both personal achievement and the support of his team, he has now fixed his sights firmly on the continental stage. The CAF Champions League looms—a demanding arena where only the best can shine. The coach’s own reflection on this next step is revealing: “It gives me the motivation that even when we go to the continental stage, we do it like we have managed locally. I want to win this award again, so I will put in more effort.”
The message is clear: the standards set in Kenyan football are now the baseline for continental ambition. Strong leadership, tactical acumen, and above all, unwavering belief will be the guiding lights as Kenya Police represents the nation against Africa’s elite.
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Recognising and rewarding excellence
The Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) and their partners have consistently encouraged excellence by spotlighting the role of coaches. As SJAK President James Waindi notes, “The Award cuts across all sports, serving as a motivating factor for our coaches to go the extra mile in the field of play.” Betika’s continued sponsorship further amplifies the impact of this initiative, cementing the award’s status as the biggest monthly recognition in Kenyan sport. Betika’s Japheth Akhulia emphasizes this, underscoring how sports unify people and cultures—a value, perhaps, best exemplified by the diverse makeup and unity within the Kenya Police camp.
Financial windfall and new horizons
It’s not just pride and passion at stake. Both Kenya Police and Nairobi United, recent domestic league winners, are poised for a significant financial boost as the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has doubled prize money for Champions League and Confederation Cup participation. This development brings increased investment and opportunity, placing a premium on sustained excellence.
For Kenya Police, such support is a vital runway for further growth. The prospect of competing at Africa’s highest level is daunting, but with their newfound resources and renewed self-belief, they’re ready to lay the foundations for long-term success.
Legacy, leadership, and the dawn of a new era
Kenya Police FC’s rise is a story of determination, strong leadership, and a belief in dreaming big. Success has been forged not just in results, but in ethos—one game at a time, one challenge at a time. From the shadows of relegation to the continental spotlight, every member of this outfit has played a role in lifting the team to new heights.
As Kenyan football reflects on this remarkable campaign, and as the Law Enforcers prepare for their next battle, the emotion is palpable. There is pride, there is hope, and above all, there is an appetite for the next great adventure. Under Etienne Ndayiragije, Kenya Police FC isn’t just competing, they’re inspiring, reminding us all that with vision, unity, and hard work, even the most unlikely stories can become history.
