Uganda Rugby Sevens is entering a transitional phase following the resignation of head coach Tolbert Onyango, who stepped down after a decade at the helm.
On Thursday, the Uganda Rugby Union (URU) appointed Allan Otim as caretaker coach to guide the team through the 27th Safari Sevens, set for October 10–12 at Nairobi’s Nyayo Stadium.
Otim, a long-serving member of the Sevens technical bench, was described by URU as “a steady hand” with deep knowledge of the team.
His immediate task is to prepare the Cranes Sevens squad for the regional tournament while maintaining continuity after Onyango’s departure.
URU Chief Technical Officer Ramsey Olinga explained the caretaker decision, saying,
“We agreed that the people currently running the Sevens team are qualified. To avoid disruption, the current management, along with Michael, our Level 2 Sevens coach and strength & conditioning specialist, will lead the team through Safari Sevens. They know the system and can steer the ship effectively.”
Olinga stressed that the arrangement is temporary.
“We will evaluate the team management next year and may consider extending their tenure or bringing in additional support. For now, the focus is on stability and performance in Safari Sevens.”
On the possibility of recruiting a permanent coach locally or internationally, Olinga added,
“Not yet. We will consider options at the start of next year. Our current team and Michael remain the first choices. After a year, we will assess whether external assistance is needed.”
