At DBA Africa, our mission has always been clear: to empower young people through sport and create opportunities that extend far beyond the playing field. That mission is finding new strength through our growing partnership with Wazi Wazi, a Japanese-based team whose support is opening doors for Kenyan talent at every level.

A Partnership Rooted in Opportunity

The collaboration between DBA Africa and Wazi Wazi has already brought tangible impact to our Nairobi Rugby Academy. With their backing, the academy has become a thriving hub for hundreds of children from diverse economic backgrounds, ensuring that resources, coaching and mentorship are consistently available. Wazi Wazi’s team regularly engages with the academy, bringing top-tier patrons to share their expertise. Among them is Toshiaki Hirose, former Japan 15s captain, who has inspired our young athletes with his knowledge and experience.

This relationship is also about building pathways for sporting talent to flourish in Japan, whether through athlete scholarships, competitive placements, or coaching exchanges and education. Beyond athletes, there is growing potential for Japanese volunteers and coaches to spend time in Kenya, creating opportunities for cultural exchange, shared learning, and intellectual growth that strengthen both communities.

From Coaching to Playing: Pathways in Action

The first milestone came when Patrice Agunda, now Kenya Harlequins RFC Head Coach and former Kenyan international, travelled to Japan for a coaching programme. During his visit, he connected with Eddie Jones, one of the most influential rugby coaches in the world, gaining exposure that continues to enrich his work back home.

More recently, that pathway extended to players. Andycole Omolo, current Kenya 15s second row, travelled to Japan for trials earlier this year. After rigorous training, he secured a place at Tenri University, where he will begin his journey this April. His success is not only a personal achievement but also a sign of what is possible when partnerships create international opportunities.

Looking Ahead

The partnership between DBA Africa and Wazi Wazi is only beginning. With coaching programmes, athlete placements, scholarships, and the possibility of volunteer exchanges, this collaboration is set to grow into a long-term pipeline of opportunity that will benefit not just individual players and coaches but the wider Kenyan sporting community.

With the continued support of Wazi Wazi, we are building structures that give young people the chance to dream bigger, achieve more, and carry Kenya’s sporting story onto the global stage. This is only the start, and more stories like Patrice Agunda’s and Andy Cole’s are sure to follow. Together, DBA Africa and Wazi Wazi are shaping a brighter, more connected future for Kenyan sport.

LOOK INTO THE DBA WAZI WAZI NAIROBI ACADEMY