Former AFC Leopards star's advice that led to son playing rugby

Mwamba RFC scrum half Eugene Ojiambo has opened up on how advice from his father, a former AFC Leopards and Mathare United player, shaped his decision to pursue rugby and fueled his rise in the game.

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In an exclusive with Mozzart Sport, the former Kenya U20 (Chipu) star revealed that he comes from a rich sporting background, with his father, Andrew Ojiambo Mtanda, playing a central role in his career choices.

“My dad played football for AFC Leopards between 2008 and 2009, and also for Mathare United here in Nairobi. At one point, he even played right here at the Goan Institute,” Ojiambo started.

His family’s rich sporting history does not end there.

“My mum played basketball for KCB, and my brother is also into basketball, playing in Kayole. As for me, I chose rugby,” he continued.

Ojiambo explained that his shift to rugby was a calculated decision, guided by his father’s experience in Kenyan football.

©Tabby Nashipae

“I picked rugby following my dad’s advice. He gave me insight into the football situation in Kenya, how it was a bit unstable in terms of management, finances, and structure. He suggested rugby because the environment here emphasizes education and discipline, which would help me grow both on and off the field,” he explained.

Trusting that counsel, rugby quickly became a natural fit for Ojiambo, aided by influences within his community.

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“Not to take anything away from football players, but I trusted his advice because it came from experience. Rugby was also present in my community. Players like Victor Odhiambo at Kabras inspired me. David Williams introduced me to the game, and I’ve never looked back since,” he offered.

The Mwamba playmaker has since enjoyed a steady rise, representing Kenya’s U20 side in 2024 and 2025.

He was part of the Chipu team that won the Barthes Cup in Zimbabwe in 2024, a triumph that secured Kenya a place at the World Rugby U20 Trophy in Scotland. Although Chipu failed to defend the title this year, Ojiambo’s performances continued to stand out.

His progress has now earned him a call-up to the Kenya Sevens setup, with head coach Kevin Wambua drafting him into the provisional 2026 HSBC SVNS Division 2 squad.

Beyond the accolades, family support remains central to his journey.

“My family feels proud watching me represent the country. They have always been supportive. My dad, in particular, has always believed in my work ethic and kept encouraging me to push further,” he revealed.

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Looking ahead, the scrum half is determined to cement his place at the top level.

“I want to hold on to my spot on the national team because I know the competition is tough. I also aim to play in the series and represent my country at the highest level,” he said.