KCB appoint Mwalala, ‘Pamzo’ in line to replace him at Ulinzi Stars
By Dennis Mabuka, July 12, 2023FKF Premier League side KCB has raided Ulinzi Stars for the services of head coach Bernard Mwalala, who will now replace veteran Zedekiah ‘Zico’ Otieno.
The Bankers were in the market for a new coach after Otieno turned down an offer to extend his stay following the expiry of his contract at the start of July.
People Daily Sports can exclusively report the former Harambee Stars striker, Mwalala, who was among the coaches shortlisted for the role, has taken over the mantle after agreeing to sign a one-year renewable deal and will be assisted by former KCB player Elvis Ayany.
“We want to move with speed and start our pre-season and I can confirm Bernard is the new man to take us forward in the upcoming season,” a source within KCB, who did not want to be named, told People Daily Sports, adding: “He has signed a one-year renewable contract and requested to work with Elvis Ayany as his new assistant”.
“We have swiftly appointed Ayany to the assistant role and as the management, we are very happy to welcome him back to the club where he made his name during his playing career.”
Ulinzi Stars further issued a statement confirming the exit of Mwalala and wished him well in his next assignment.
“It is with mixed emotions that we inform you of the resignation of our beloved head coach, Bernard Mwalala,” read the statement on the club’s social media pages, adding: “He has played an instrumental role in shaping our team, leading us to numerous victories, and fostering a culture of dedication, teamwork, and excellence.
We are deeply grateful for the contributions made by him and the impact he has had on our players, staff, and team as a whole. Thank you for being the heartbeat of our team. Together, we will continue to strive for greatness.”
The 38-year-old Mwalala is not new in the coaching circles, having handled Nzoia Sugar, Bandari FC where he guided them to continental football, took charge of Kakamega Homeboyz, before he was fired and later moved to steer Ulinzi Stars. Mwalala, who also featured in Kenya’s national team Harambee Stars, played his club football in Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Uganda, Malaysia, and Oman.