Details of Kenyan Rugby Club launched in Doha, Qatar
Reading Time: 3min | Tue. 14.07.26. | 12:36
Organizers intend to establish structured training programs, competitive fixtures, and mentorship opportunities while introducing more people in Qatar to Kenya's fast-paced style of rugby
Kenyan rugby has taken another significant step in its international growth with the launch of the Kenyan Rugby Club in Doha, Qatar, creating a home for one of Kenya's largest diaspora communities in the Gulf.
The club's formation was announced by former Kenya Under-20 and Kenya Harlequins winger Alvin Kalori on Saturday, 10 July, who described it as the beginning of an exciting journey for Kenyan rugby in Qatar.
Download our Mozzart Sport App for more news
In a post shared on social media, Kalori said the initiative is about much more than forming a rugby team.
He described it as the creation of a family united by a shared Kenyan heritage, passion for rugby, and a commitment to representing the country with pride.
He also credited the Kenyan Ambassador to Qatar, committee members, team captains, and volunteers for helping turn the vision into reality.
“Today marks the beginning of an exciting journey as we proudly unveil our newly formed Kenyan Rugby Club here in Doha, Qatar. This is more than just the formation of a team; it is the creation of a family united by our shared heritage, passion for rugby, and commitment to representing Kenya with pride and excellence.
This milestone would not have been possible without the unwavering support and encouragement of the Kenyan Ambassador, whose belief in the Kenyan community has inspired us to dream bigger. We also extend our deepest appreciation to our dedicated committee members, team captains, and every individual who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to turn this vision into reality,” he posted.
The timing is significant. Estimates from Kenyan government officials and official labor reports indicate that between 66,000 and 90,000 Kenyans currently live and work in Qatar, making it one of the country's largest diaspora communities in the Middle East.
The club is expected to provide those rugby enthusiasts with a structured environment to train, compete, and remain connected to home through sport.
The club's ambitions extend beyond social rugby.
Organizers intend to establish structured training programs, competitive fixtures, and mentorship opportunities while introducing more people in Qatar to Kenya's fast-paced style of rugby.
Its technical foundation is also deeply rooted in Kenya.
Among the institutions linked to the initiative is Kisumu-based Winam Rugby Academy, one of the country's leading grassroots rugby programs that has produced several elite players, including Kenya Sevens captain George Ooro.
Drawing on established Kenyan coaching and player development structures gives the club an opportunity to build a sustainable rugby program while creating pathways for talent development within the expatriate community.
The launch also reflects the strengthening sporting relationship between Kenya and Qatar.
In recent years, the Kenya Rugby Union and the Qatar Rugby and Hockey Committee have explored collaboration in coach education, technical exchange, and youth development, laying the foundation for closer rugby cooperation between the two countries.
The establishment of a Kenyan club in Doha provides a practical platform for those partnerships to translate into regular rugby activity while expanding the game's reach in the Gulf.
Kenyan rugby's influence has also continued to spread across the wider Middle East, with former Kenya Lionesses international Philadelphia Olando currently serving in a coaching role with the UAE Women's National Team, while Kenyan players and coaches continue to pursue opportunities across the region.
For the Kenyan community in Qatar, however, the significance of the club goes beyond the rugby field.
It offers a place where sport can strengthen community bonds, preserve Kenyan identity, and introduce the country's rugby culture to new audiences.