Were opens up on highs and lows of his eight-year stint in Zambia
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Reading Time: 3min | Fri. 15.08.25. | 08:45
The player who has since parted ways with Kenya Police is already laying the groundwork for a career off the pitch
Former Kenya Police FC striker Jesse Were has opened up on the defining moments of his illustrious career in Zambia.
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Were enjoyed a glittering spell with nine-time Zambian champions Zesco United, where he cemented his legacy as the club’s all-time top scorer with over 100 goals.
Among his successes while at Zesco are four league titles, two Charity Shields, and two ABSA Cup championships. He also reached the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League with the Zambian club.
He left the Zambian side at the start of the 2022 season to join Kansanshi Dynamos after another successful stint, during which he scored eight goals and six assists, and in the process emerged as the club’s top scorer.
In 2023, he made a short return to Zesco on a one-year contract before coming back home to sign for Kenya Police FC.
He was part of the squad that clinched their maiden FKF Premier League title in the 2024/25 season.
Speaking to Mozzart Sport, Were noted that his stay in the South African nation was marked by both triumphs and challenges.
The striker attributed his achievements to a combination of hard work, supportive coaches, and talented teammates.
“Hard work during training, I was surrounded by the best teammates, and the coach was also very supportive,” the soft-spoken Were said.
Settling in a new country came with its challenges. The early days were the toughest part of his Zambian adventure.
“The biggest challenge was settling into a new country. It was not easy. I had to look for friends and people who would be by my side. I was lucky because I found Kalaba, who made it easy for me to settle in. The culture, food were not different from Kenya, so it was easy to settle,” he continued.
What, however, stood out for him was the spiritual aspect in Zambia.
“Zambia is a very prayerful country. That was outstanding. In a year, there is a day set aside for prayers. I have not seen that in Kenya,” he disclosed.
Despite receiving multiple offers after leaving Zambia, Were opted for Kenya Police FC because of familiarity with the players.
“There were offers, but I chose Police because most of the players I played with while I was in KPL, and even the national team, so it would make me comfortable because we understood each other’s styles of play. Although I did not get quality playing time, I settled in well,” he averred.
The player who has since parted ways with Kenya Police is already laying the groundwork for a career off the pitch.
“I would love to have a football agency and scout players. I am currently studying for it,” he concluded.
