Onjiko Boys High School has been handed a three-year ban from Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) games after an investigation confirmed the school fielded ineligible players during the 2025 KSSSA football tournament.
A letter from the County Director of Education (CDE) Kisumu, Rosemary Birenge, dated June 25, 2025, detailed the findings of a probe carried out on the advice of the Supreme Jury of the KSSSSA.
In the letter, the report concluded that Onjiko Boys breached Rule 11 of the KSSSA Tournament Regulations by deploying six players who failed to meet eligibility criteria in a match against Kisumu Boys High School.
The players named in the report are:
Benedict Waswa (ADM 12518)
Nthai Gai Reat (ADM 13492)
Ojiambo Frankline (ADM 12516)
Brian James (ADM 12440)
Nanyangaa Taberion (ADM 12303)
Julius Onyango (ADM 12203)
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The CDE cited Section 17 of the KSSSA Constitution, which outlines offenses warranting sanctions, including fielding unauthorized players. As a result, Onjiko’s football team has been barred from all KSSSA competitions for a period of three years, effective immediately.
“In line with the KSSSA Constitution, Onjiko Boys High School football team is consequently banned from participating in KSSSA Games for three years,” the statement read.
Additionally, the ruling invalidates all semi-final matches played involving the team, declaring them null and void. The CDE’s office, in consultation with KSSSA officials, is expected to issue a directive on the way forward regarding the tournament standings and potential rematches.
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The decision has stirred heated debate in the education and sports sectors, with many lauding the move as a bold step toward restoring integrity in school competitions. Others have raised concerns over oversight failures that allowed the breach to occur.
The principals of both Kisumu Boys and Onjiko Boys High Schools, as well as the Regional Director of Education – Nyanza, have been formally notified of the decision.
This ban is poised to have far-reaching implications for Onjiko’s sporting future and stands as a cautionary tale to institutions prioritizing results over rules.
By Godfrey Wamalwa
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