Newly elected Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) vice chairman, Moses Ndale, says his immediate plan is to solicit corporate sponsorship for the various national teams.
Speaking after the Annual General Meeting, the former KCB forward said the biggest challenge facing the sport is the lack of resources to fund the national teams.
"We are facing tough economic times and if we are to compete with the world's best, we will need funds to adequately prepare the teams,” he added.
Ndale cited Simbas, who need Sh38 million to prepare effectively for the repechage in the United Arab Emirates, where they face the USA, Portugal and Hong Kong in November.
"The board is doing everything to give the team the best possible preparation and we hope they can start training soon,” he added.
Ndale also outlined his vision for the women's team, where he served as director.
"The women's game is my baby. We have come a long way and seeing the girls beat South Africa recently in the Challenger Series was good feeling. Our 15s team is also making inroads. There are now more women playing the game than before so I believe we can go far with the right investment,” he said.
Ndale defeated fellow director Peris Mukoko by 20 to 11 votes to replace long-serving Thomas Opiyo for the seat. Ian Mugambi retained his seat as secretary after beating Ray Olendo by 18 to 13 votes.
In the race for the director's seat, Oscar Mango retained his seat after garnering 23 votes while newcomer Leslie Mwangale secured the final slot by garnering 16 votes. Hillary Itela finished third with 15 votes while Charles Chege came a distant fourth with 6 votes.
In an evening of high drama at the RFUEA Grounds, the union explored the idea of postponing the elections for a second time after the Sports Registrar Rose Wasike said county bodies must vote alongside the clubs.
This saw affiliates vote to allow counties to take part in the election.
The union was advised by Rugby Africa observer Pauline Lanco that failure to have the elections could land the country a ban from World Rugby thus locking them out Shujaa and Kenya Simbas from international assignments.
