Africa-Press – Kenya. National Super League outfit Darajani Gogo head coach Andrew Ongwae has ditched the club for SportPesa League side Shabana.
Ongwae will serve as a second assistant to head coach Peter Okidi. The club is still looking for the first assistant coach to replace Barnard Mwalala, who has joined SportPesa League side Bandari. Ongwae was appointed on the recommendation of Okidi.
Former Harambee Starlets head coach Godfrey ‘Solo’ Oduor is a leading candidate for the post of first assistant coach after initially declining the post in the year 2014. He was appointed the then-coach Sammy ‘Pamzo’ Omollo’s assistant, but did not report.
On Saturday, Shabana secretary general Elizaphan Kerama confirmed the acquisition of the experienced CAF B license holder, who returns to the Glamour Boys, where he served as a player and assistant coach.
Ongwae will be unveiled and introduced to players before Shabana takes on Nairobi United on Sunday afternoon at Gusii Stadium. “Ongwae brings valuable experience, discipline, and a strong commitment to player development and team performance,” remarked Kerama.
He added: “His appointment is part of our continued efforts to strengthen the technical bench and enhance the club’s competitiveness this season.”
Shabana will make a significant number of new signings in the mid-season transfer window, which runs from January 12 to February 9. According to a source, the club is likely to make six signings as the Glamour Boys seek their maiden top-tier league title.
Ongwae was appointed Darajani Gogo head coach at the beginning of the season, taking over from Paul Ogai, who quit the second-tier side for SportPesa League side KCB. Ogai serves as an assistant to veteran Robert Matano at KCB. Previously, Ongwae, a former defender coaches defunct outfits Gusii FC, Vihiga Bullets, and Samwest Blackboots.
During his heydays, Ongwae played for Agro Chemicals, Muhoroni Youth, Shabana, and Gor Mahia, among other clubs.
