Coaches complete CAF B coaching course in Nairobi

Two Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League coaches believe the knowledge and skills acquired at the just-concluded Confederation of African Football (CAF) B coaching course will aid them in instilling professionalism, discipline and success in their players.

Bandari assistant coach Anthony Kimani, a former Kenya international, and Bidco coach Anthony Akhulia were among 25 elite coaches who graduated after the four-month coaching course that included an attachment at a top-flight club.

Other graduates include former footballers Musa Otieno, Hillary Echesa, Fred Ambani, and Doreen Nabwire, Beldine Odemba, George Maina, Joseph Wambua, Harambee Starlets head coach Charles Okere among others.

"This is an important milestone in my coaching career," explained Kimani, who captained Mathare United to the 2008 Kenyan Premier League title.

"I still consider myself a rookie in this (coaching industry) and so it's very important that I get good foundational blocks. The acquired skills will help me perform better in my role at Bandari."

Akhulia, considered among the most promising young coaches, added: "This course has been intense, and challenged my outlook on football. My challenge is to transfer this knowledge to my players."

Ugandan coach Faridah Bulega was also part of the course in Nairobi.

FKF Acting President Dories Petra officiated the closing ceremony.

Petra, who is now at the helm of the federation that was disbanded by Sports Cabinet Secretary last month, said she was happy to see the coaches gain more knowledge.

Amina further appointed a Caretaker Committee to take over the running of football activities in the country after disbanding the Nick Mwendwa-led federation.

Caf B is the third-ranked coaching course in the file of African football, after Caf A and Caf Pro in that order.

These coaches are part of crucial furniture in developing talent and growing the game.