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Kenya Simbas backrower explains rejoining Strathmore Leos after stint in France
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Reading Time: 3min | Wed. 15.07.26. | 12:42
Despite having other options upon his return, the backrower said rejoining Strathmore was an easy decision
Kenya Simbas backrower Bethuel Anami has explained why he chose to reunite with Strathmore Leos after returning to Kenya from a nearly four-year stint in France.
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Anami marked his return in style, helping Strathmore Leos lift the Ruff n Tuff title after edging hosts Nondies RFC 15-14 in a thrilling final held on Saturday, 11 July at the Ngong Racecourse.
He recently returned to Kenyan soil after spending close to four seasons with French Federal 2 side Maisons-Laffitte, Saint-Germain-en-Laye, and Poissy (MLSGP), where he gained valuable experience playing in one of Europe's competitive club systems. Before moving to MLSGP, he played for Stade Caennaise RC.
Despite having other options upon his return, the backrower said rejoining Strathmore was an easy decision because of his strong connection with the club and its players.
"I don't know how long I'll be at Strathmore, but I chose this team because it has always been home. It's easy for me to settle in with the boys and keep things going.
They have always welcomed me back because I've been here before, and that's why I chose Strathmore," Anami told Mozzart Sport.
He also reflected on his time in France, describing it as a transformative chapter in his rugby career.
"Playing in France was an amazing and exciting experience. I'm grateful for everything I learned, from improving my skills to experiencing a different rugby culture.
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It was a great journey that helped me grow both as a player and as a person,” he said.
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Strathmore's Ruff n Tuff triumph capped an impressive unbeaten run throughout the tournament.
Drawn in Pool A alongside Nondies RFC, Kenya Harlequin, and Kenyatta University Blak Blad, the Leos began their campaign with a 17-17 draw against Nondies before beating Kenya Harlequin 19-10 and thrashing Blak Blad 29-0 to finish top of the standings.
They then defeated last year's finalists, Mwamba RFC 24-12, in the semi-finals before overcoming hosts Nondies by a single point in the final to claim the title.
Anami's return to Strathmore is a full-circle moment in a rugby journey that began in December 2012 when friends introduced him to the sport.
Although he initially preferred football, his outlook changed while studying at St. Peter's Mumias after realising rugby could open doors to scholarship opportunities and ease his family's financial burden.
With guidance from coaches Libondo Shimenga and Eric Chebutala, he developed into one of the country's most promising talents. During his school days, he helped St. Peter's Mumias win both the National School Games rugby sevens title and the historic East Africa School Games sevens crown.
After high school, he joined Strathmore Leos through a scouting opportunity facilitated by Mitch Ocholla, earning a scholarship to pursue a degree in Commerce.
His first spell with the Leos was equally successful. He won the Floodlit Varsity title in 2019 while also claiming individual honours, including Most Valuable Player and Top Try Scorer.
He played a key role in helping Strathmore secure promotion to the Kenya Cup and reach back-to-back Kenya Cup semi-finals.