After 16 years of playing, Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) setter Elijah Bosire has retired and joined the club’s coaching team ahead of the new Kenya Volleyball Federation National League season.
Bosire, who also played for the national men’s volleyball team, Wafalme Stars, has become one of the trainers at KPA as the 2025/2026 season kicks off on November 6-9 at the Nyayo Stadium Gymnasium in Nairobi.
Bosire, the twin brother of Florence Bosire, the setter for the women’s Malkia Strikers national volleyball team, has been a key part of KPA, using his setting prowess last season to help them finish second, behind the winners, General Service Unit (GSU) .
The former Malava Boys High player says he believes the tide will change in the new season as KPA aim to overcome their biggest opponents – GSU and Kenya Prisons.
“We’ve come close a few times, but now I think it’s our time to win our first national league title,” said Bosire, who credits his impressive career to veteran coach Juma Walukhu.
Walukhu discovered him at the Moi Forces Academy in Nairobi in the 1990s.
The 37-year-old, who is employed by Nairobi Water Sewage and Company, also discussed the exit of two reliable team members: middle blocker Ayuen Mich and Peter Kamara, who transferred to Chema Club.
“The departure of some of our top players, such as Mich, has definitely left a gap, not just in skill but also in experience and leadership. It’s a major blow to us, but we are happy for them. We are well aware of the prevailing economic struggles, so we consider it a win when we see our own get better deals out there. I view it as both a challenge and an opportunity for the rest of us. This has pushed younger players to step up,” said Bosire.
“We’ve had to adjust our style of play to focus on teamwork and tightening our defence. We don’t want to rely on a few individuals. We know we have what it takes to stay at the top. Our goal is simple: fight for every point, remain consistent, and bring the league title home.”
Asked why he has quit playing, Bosire said: “I made the decision after a reflection on my life and my journey as a volleyball player. I felt it was time I left the stage for the players I have mentored. This will give the young players a chance to grow and take volleyball to the next level.”
“I also wish to thank KPA team manager Joel Kosgei, who has given me the chance to join the technical bench as one of their trainers. I think I have something to offer the upcoming players,” said Bosire, also a brother to Kenya Prisons libero Charles Bosire.
“Wafalme have made impressive progress, recently winning silver at the African Games and showing signs of closing the gap on top African sides. Their growing talent pool, better training, and new sponsorships reflect rising momentum. However, challenges such as limited funding, poor indoor facilities still hold them back,” said Bosire who has had stints at Kenya Defence Forces, Nairobi Water, Blue Triangle and Kenya Airways.
“Overall, the sport in growing fast in Kenya. However, there is need for a strong youth talent hub, sustained investment, exposure, and development of talent at the grassroots.”
