The appointment of Philip Edwine Anayo as a Non-Executive Director of the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) marks a significant step in strengthening the governance and leadership of Kenyan rugby. His two-year term will run from August 2025 to August 2027, bringing both business acumen and proven rugby leadership to the Union’s board.
Anayo’s role as a non-executive director includes serving on one of the board’s critical subcommittees such as Finance and Administration, Development, Legal, Commercial, Fixtures, National Squads, or Communication and Media. His diverse professional experience and commitment to the sport are expected to contribute significantly to the Union’s strategic direction.
Upon his appointment, Anayo expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and pledged to use his background in commerce and industry to advance rugby in Kenya. He emphasized the importance of strengthening structures within the Union to ensure that rugby continues to grow from grassroots level to the global stage.
Anayo is currently a Director at Homeland Itoya Events, a company with operations across major towns in Kenya including Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret, and Busia. Homeland Itoya is also the main sponsor of Kisumu Rugby Football Club (KRFC), underscoring his longstanding commitment to supporting rugby both on and off the pitch.
His track record in rugby leadership is well established. Between 2018 and 2020, Anayo served as Chairman of Kisumu RFC, during which time he secured stable sponsorship that allowed the club to participate in the full National Sevens Circuit without financial strain. His leadership provided the club with a solid foundation, enabling it to thrive in a competitive rugby environment.
Looking ahead, Anayo has pledged to work closely with fellow board members to build on Kenyan rugby’s strong foundation. His vision includes strengthening the Union’s internal structures, attracting sustainable partnerships, and ensuring that national teams perform strongly on the international stage. Equally important to him is the development of rugby at the grassroots, where he believes the future of the sport lies.
His appointment has been widely welcomed as a positive move for Kenyan rugby, bringing together expertise in business, sponsorship, and rugby administration. With a blend of professionalism and passion, Anayo is expected to play a pivotal role in helping the Kenya Rugby Union achieve long-term growth and success.
