Shabana FC have confirmed the appointment of Andrew Mark Ongwae as their second assistant coach, with the club moving to strengthen its technical bench ahead of the ongoing SportPesa League season.

The club made the announcement on Saturday, January 3, 2025, through a formal statement signed by Secretary General Elizaphan Kerama.

“We are pleased to officially announce the appointment of Mr. Mark Ongwae as the Second Assistant Coach of Shabana FC, with immediate effect,” the club stated.

Ongwae joins the Kisii-based side with immediate effect after leaving National Super League outfit Darajani Gogo, where he served as head coach until last month.

Shabana said the decision forms part of a wider plan to improve competitiveness and reinforce the technical department as the club targets stronger performances this season.

Ongwae brings vast experience to the dugout, both as a former top-flight player and as a coach who has worked across different levels of Kenyan football. He is a CAF B licence holder and is well known in Kisii County football circles, having previously coached Gusii United. He has also handled SamWest Blackboots in the past.

As a player, Ongwae enjoyed a solid career as a defender. He featured for Agro Chemicals, World Hope FC, Gor Mahia, Congo United and Nairobi City Stars. His consistent performances earned him a call-up to the Harambee Stars under former head coach Francis Kimanzi, where he played alongside several established names in Kenyan football.

From captain to coach

Ongwae also has a strong connection with Shabana FC, having previously played for the club during its push for top-flight football. He served as team captain during a difficult period when the club struggled with management challenges and financial strain. Despite the instability, he remained committed and later returned to the club in 2016 after a brief spell at Muhoroni Youth.

His return to Shabana in a coaching role adds familiarity to the technical bench at a time when assistant coach Bernard Mwalala continues to attract interest from Bandari FC, where he is linked with a possible return as head coach.

In their statement, Shabana described Ongwae as a disciplined coach with a strong focus on player development and team performance. The club believes his experience will help improve structure, organisation and balance within the squad.

Ongwae’s appointment also reflects Shabana’s preference for individuals who understand the club’s history and identity. His knowledge of the local football environment and his past association with the club place him in a strong position to support the head coach and technical team.

The former defender now returns to familiar ground, this time tasked with helping guide Shabana from the touchline rather than the back line.