After sixteen years of playing active volleyball, former National team Wafalme stars and Kenya Ports Authority (KPA)men’s volleyball team setter Elijah Bosire has called it a day and moved into coaching ahead of the new season of the Kenya Volleyball Federation National League that begins next month.
Bosire will be KPA’s trainer as the 2025/2026 season takes center stage on November 6-9 at the Nyayo National stadium gymnasium in Nairobi.
Bosire who is twin brother to former Kenya women’s volleyball team Malkia striker’s setter Florence Bosire has been instrumental for the Mombasa based club with well-oiled setting prowess that saw KPA finish second last season behind winners General Service Unit(GSU).
KPA will rely on Reagan Oselu and Felix Omondi in the setting department.
The former Malava Boys High School from Kakamega County player says that they have previously played second fiddle to GSU and Kenya Prisons and he believes the tide should change this season.
“We have long been contenders and have come close several times, and now we feel it’s time we claimed our first National League title. Given our recent performances and ability to compete, finishing second in the league twice, I believe we have what it takes and in a strong position to bag the title, provided we maintain form, resources, and consistency,” said Bosire who credited his playing to veteran coach Juma Walukhu who established him at the Moi Forces Academy in Nairobi in 1990’s.
Bosire, 37 and a water operator at the technical department of Nairobi Water Sewage and Company says he is not unmoved after two of their dependable players middle blocker Ayuen Mich and Peter Kamara crossed over to Chema club.
“The departure of some of our top players like Mich has definitely left a gap, not just in skill but also in experience and leadership. Despite the fact that this is a major blow, we truly are happy for them. We are well aware of the prevailing economic struggles so it’s a win when we see our own get better deals out there. I see it as both a challenge and an opportunity for the rest of us. It’s pushed younger players to step up, play with more courage, and trust the system even more, “observed Bosire.
“We’ve had to adjust our style of play — focus on teamwork, tighten our defence— instead of relying on a few individuals to carry the team. The energy is different now, hungrier, more united. We know we have what it takes to stay at the top, and even though the road looks tougher, I believe this is the season that will really test and define KPA’s spirit. Our goal is simple: fight for every point, stay consistent, and bring that National League title home,”
Asked why he has quit playing, Bosire said, “
It’s a decision that I made after a reflection of my life and journey as a volleyball player. the players that I have mentored, and had an impact in their volleyball world it’s time for me to live the stage and give young players a chance to grow and take volleyball to the next level”
“I thank the leadership of KPA team manager Joel Kosgei who gave me a chance to join them in their technical team as one of their trainers, something that I really appreciate so much. I think I have something to offer to the upcoming players,” he added.
Bosire who is sibling to Kenya Prisons libero Charles said the future of Wafalme stars is on the rise.
“Wafalme have made impressive progress, recently winning silver at the African Games and showing signs of closing the gap with top African sides. Their growing talent pool, better training structure, and new sponsorships reflect rising momentum. However, challenges like limited funding, poor indoor facilities, and lower visibility compared to Malkia Strikers still hold them back. Overall, Kenya’s volleyball scene is developing fast, with a strong youth talent hub, sustained investment, exposure, and grassroots growth are vital towards long-term continental and global success,” concluded Bosire who has had stints at Kenya Defence Forces, Nairobi Water, Blue Triangle and Kenya Airways.
