The story behind Jogoo; Lawi Buyachi’s nickname

The name Lawi Buyachi is already well-regarded among local rugby enthusiasts.

The former Kisumu RFC tactician is widely recognized by his iconic nickname, 'Jogoo'. This Swahili word translates to 'rooster/cock' in English.

The name is a fitting nickname for Buyachi who displays a fierce, protective, and responsible demeanour both on and off the rugby pitch.

Origin

The nickname dates back to 14 years ago during his playing days at Impala RFC. The team was headed to Nairobi from Kisumu's Dala 7s.

During the journey, Dan ‘Digolo’ Weku, seemingly out of the blue, started praising Buyachi for his impressive skills. He referred to him as 'Jogoo'.

That spontaneous admiration sparked a lively debate as each vied to earn the title.

Italian Serie A club eyeing Kenyan midfielder

However, drawing from tradition, where there can never be two cockerels in a homestead, the team concluded that there could only be one 'Jogoo' among them.

With this playful yet symbolic exchange, Lawi earned his enduring nickname.

In an exclusive interview with Mozzart Sport, Buyachi noted that the nickname was synonymous with his ability to inspire and get things done. The tactician leaves a lasting impact on those he works with.

That was evident during his coaching stint at Kisumu RFC where he led them to finish second in the 2022/23 Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) Championship season and subsequently got promoted to play in the 2023/24 Kenya Cup season.

He restored the fortunes of the lakeside club which barely survived relegation from the Championship to the nationwide league. They were coming hot on the heels of their relegation from the Kenya Cup at the close of the Covid-disrupted 2019/20 season.

“I was the youngest in the team; Impala RFC together with the late Tony Onyango. Despite being young, I was able to influence positive energy and enhance productivity.

Kenya Sevens’ Kevin Wekesa joins Rosko Specman in signing for French side

I have a unique ability to inspire and get things done. Initially, I was nicknamed 'Mswati' but it did not make sense. I liked Jogoo more,” he offered.

A rooster serves as a defender and guard to its flock. It is always looking out for any danger and would warn the hens at the right time.

During his days at Impala RFC, Buyachi played with some of the best names in Kenya Rugby. They included Innocent Simiyu, Neto Simiyu, Vincent Mose, Paul Oyimbo, Tony Owuor, Tony Onyango (the late), Peter Ocholla, Kevin Ombuge, and Duncan Ikasi.

He was the youngest in the squad but was always ready to protect his teammates in case of any danger.

“A jogoo won't allow another jogoo to come to our territory,” he said.

As a coach, Buyachi is remarkably time-conscious, earning him comparisons to a rooster. Just like a cock crow at dawn, guided by its internal body clock, the tactician is always in sync with time.

Studies show that roosters' strong crowing at dawn is driven by internal factors rather than just external cues, and similarly, Buyachi’s keen sense of timing comes from an innate discipline.

“I love being in charge. Even in my family, I am the lastborn but I tend to lead things. At times my elder brothers are forced to remind me that I am younger,” he offered.

Buyachi admitted that the nickname has driven him to strive for greater success and live up to the expectations it carries.

Promoted Kenya Sevens learn dates of new HSBC SVNS season

“That name is a show of commitment; what I have achieved as a person. It is a fulfilment of what I've done, what I am doing, and what I will do. It motivates me to keep doing better and maintain the legacy,” he concluded.

During his heydays, Buyachi played for Uganda's Pirates, Impala RFC, Nakuru RFC, and Kabras RFC. The World Rugby Level II accredited coach also had stints with South Coast Pirates, Kabarak RFC, Kabras RFC, and Eldoret RFC as a guest coach.

He left Nakuru RFC in 2017 to take up a coaching role at South Coast Pirates but returned to playing in 2019 when he joined Kabras RFC.

Buyachi retired from playing in 2022 to be a full-time coach. He is the current Menengai Oilers assistant coach.