Darren Rutagwera set a frank but hopeful tone as he addressed KCB Kampala Old Boys Rugby Club members for the first time as chairman, admitting the club has fallen short in recent seasons while outlining a clear plan for renewal.
“We have come into a space where the team has been falling short,” Rutagwera said. “But going forward, we are looking at several aspects of what we can do to improve performance.”
His remarks came after KOBs confirmed a new Executive Committee at the Annual General Meeting held on Sunday at the Nob View Hotel in Ntinda, formally opening a new chapter for the club.
Rutagwera, previously vice chairman, takes over as chairperson with Simon Peter Kasito as his deputy.
Richard Mutabazi was appointed secretary, Muriel Aloka Atai remains treasurer, Edrine Ssempebwa will represent the players, and Brian Odong joins as Director of Rugby to lead the technical side with Bobby Omuna as technical manager.
For Rutagwera, success starts on the field. He stressed that improved results depend on putting the right people in the right positions. “Team performance comes with getting the right coaches and having the right players,” he said.
Off the pitch, finances remain the club’s biggest challenge. Rutagwera was open about the strain limited resources place on ambition but said the new committee has clear plans to close the gap.
“We have put strategies in place, particularly targeted sponsorships, to bridge the gap between the finances we have and the financing we need,” he explained.
Community engagement is also central to his vision. Rutagwera said KOBs will strengthen its bond with supporters through initiatives that give back, stressing that sport and community cannot be separated.
He also pointed to culture as a key focus, revealing a 12 to 18-month plan to restore the identity and winning mindset that once defined the club.
Keeping Aloka Atai as treasurer, he said, reflects a commitment to financial discipline, while Mutabazi’s appointment is aimed at improving communication.
He praised Kasito’s long service to KOBs and expressed confidence in working with Odong to raise technical standards.
Attention now turns to action. KOBs open their 2026 Uganda Rugby Premiership campaign against Black Pirates on February 7, a first test of whether Rutagwera’s words can spark renewed belief and results on the field.
