Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) has led the nation in mourning the death of former Kenya Harlequin head coach and player Edward Kinyany which occurred on Tuesday, October 24, 2023.

Kinyany is considered a Harlequin legend given that he led the club to three straight Kenya Cup titles from 2010 to 2012. After that achievement, he went on to serve as chairman between 2012 and 2013.

KRU mourns Kinyany

KRU mourned the former player as a shining light of sport.

“We stand united with the entire rugby community as we grieve the loss of former Kenya international forward Edward Kinyany, who passed away on Tuesday, October 24, 2023. Known affectionately as ‘Ogre’ within rugby circles, he was a shining light of the sport.

“Ogre not only secured the Kenya Cup with Kenya Harlequin as both a player and coach but also served as the club’s chairman during the 2012-13 season,” KRU said in a statement on X, formerly Twitter.

The rugby union also cited Kinyany’s contribution to the national side, which included winning titles.

“His contributions extended beyond domestic accolades; he was an integral part of the Kenya Simbas coaching staff that led the Kenya Simbas to multiple Elgon Cup triumphs and the 2011 Africa Cup title under the guidance of Michael ‘Tank’ Otieno.

“On the rugby field, Ogre was a towering presence and a relentless competitor, yet off the field, he exuded a gentle and larger-than-life personality that left an indelible mark on those he encountered. 

“His absence leaves a void that words cannot adequately fill. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family, and we offer our heartfelt prayers for strength during this challenging period,” it added.

Quins’ message

Kinyany served Quins as player, captain, chairman, and director for a cumulative period that spanned 26 years.

“We honour a club legend who lived the Quins’ values of brotherhood, resilience, accountability, dedication, and discipline.

“We honour a champion who won multiple Kenya Cups with Harlequins as a player and a coach. We honour a patriot who, as part of the Kenya Simbas coaching team, won the 2011 Africa Cup and several Elgon Cup titles,” Quins’ statement