Kenya Rugby Union Appoints First Female Chairperson, Harriet Okatch
Kenya Rugby Union Appoints First Female Chairperson in Historic Leadership Shift
The Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) has appointed Harriet Okatch as its new chairperson, the first woman to hold the position in the union’s 55-year history. Her appointment follows the resignation of Alexander ‘Sasha’ Mutai and was made official by a unanimous board vote on June 5, 2025.
Okatch brings to the role a strong track record, having served as the Director of Marketing and Commercial Affairs since 2023. Her entry into the KRU board was marked by strong support, earning her the highest number of votes in that election cycle.
Harriet Okatch’s leadership began at a turbulent time. The Kenya Rugby Union is currently grappling with allegations of financial mismanagement and internal disputes. Investigations are underway, with multiple members of the secretariat already interrogated. In response, Okatch has stressed her commitment to restoring stability and accountability, ensuring a clear separation between the Board and secretariat functions.
Vision for Reform and Inclusivity
Among her top priorities are
- Implementing structural reforms in governance
- Strengthening grassroots and national rugby development frameworks
- Promoting equity, inclusion, and transparency
A revised Kenya Rugby Union constitution is also nearing completion, aimed at decentralizing power from the chairperson’s office and empowering regional rugby leaders.
Okatch has pledged to unite stakeholders across the board—from management to players and clubs—and is placing strong emphasis on forging new partnerships. Her long-term goal is to secure sustainability for Kenya’s national teams and league structures, with a focus on regaining Kenya’s dominance on the international rugby stage.
