Former Gor Mahia forward on how his Kagera Sugar side achieved Tanzania Premier League promotion

Kagera Sugar FC CEO Ronald Okoth has revealed the strategic measures that helped the club secure an immediate return to the Tanzania Premier League following a dominant campaign in the recently concluded Tanzania Championship League.

Download our Mozzart Sport app for more news

The former Gor Mahia forward was appointed CEO on July 20, 2025, replacing Thabity Kandoro as Kagera Sugar embarked on a rebuilding mission after suffering relegation from Tanzania's top flight.

Gor Mahia turn to Ugandan midfielder in bid to replace Enock Morrison

Tasked with steering the Bukoba-based side back to the elite league, Okoth oversaw a comprehensive restructuring process that ultimately delivered promotion at the first attempt.

Under his leadership, Kagera Sugar enjoyed a remarkable season, recording 22 wins, six draws and just two defeats in 30 league matches.

The impressive run saw the club finish second on 72 points and secure automatic promotion, bringing an end to their brief stay in the second tier.

Speaking on the factors behind the club's successful campaign, Okoth attributed the achievement to meticulous planning, effective leadership structures and a collective commitment to a shared objective.

Government begins construction of two more pitches at Talanta Stadium [PHOTOS]

"At Kagera, we had to rebuild a lot of things after a disappointing season. We set an objective to return to the Premier League, and our promotion was achieved through a combination of planning, structure and unity of purpose," said Okoth.

"From the beginning of the season, we established a clear objective and ensured everyone at the club understood their role in achieving it.

We strengthened communication between management, the technical bench and players, improved our operational planning, maintained discipline and accountability, and worked to create a stable environment where the technical team could focus on football."

According to Okoth, promotion was not the result of a single decision but rather the outcome of consistent work across all departments of the club throughout the season.

Gor Mahia-bound midfielder reveals two clubs with greatest impact on his career

The former Mathare United, Sofapaka and Western Stima striker further emphasised the importance of professionalism, accountability and organisational stability in the club's resurgence.

"We focused on building strong relationships, creating clear structures, improving professionalism and ensuring everyone was aligned behind the club's objectives," he explained.

Taifa Stars midfielder Fei Toto relishing Harambee Stars-Tanzania rivalry at 2027 AFCON

With their place in the 2026/27 Tanzania Premier League confirmed, Kagera Sugar will now shift their attention to competing among the country's elite clubs and the competitive league.

The new season is also set to mark a historic milestone for Okoth, who is poised to become the first Kenyan to serve as chief executive officer of a club in Tanzania's top flight.