Onjiko Boys banned from school games for three years

By Newsflash Reporter

Kisumu, Kenya – The Ministry of Education has banned Onjiko Boys High School from all Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) football competitions for three years after an investigation revealed that the school fielded ineligible players during the 2025 KSSSA Games.

In a letter dated June 25, 2025, addressed to the school principals of Onjiko and Kisumu Boys, County Director of Education (CDE) Rosemarry Bireng confirmed that Onjiko Boys had breached KSSSA regulations by using six players who were not eligible to compete in the tournament. The investigation was conducted following a formal appeal by Kisumu Boys High School and under the guidance of the Supreme Jury of KCSSSA.

The players identified in the violation include Benedict Waswa (ADM 12518), Nhial Gai Reat (ADM 13492), Ojiambo Frankline (ADM 12316), Briun Jumes (ADM 12440), Nanyanga Taberion (ADM 12303), and Juliux Onyango (ADM 12203).

Contravened Rule 11

According to the findings, Onjiko Boys contravened Rule 11 of the KSSSA Tournament Rules and Article A of Section 17 in the KSSSA Constitution, which explicitly prohibits the fielding of ineligible players. The offense falls under conditions that warrant automatic disciplinary action, including a long-term ban from future participation.

“In line with the KSSSA Constitution, Section 17, Article A, (iii), (iv), and (vi), Onjiko Boys High School Football Team is hereby banned from participating in KSSSA Games for three years effective today, June 25, 2025,” read the statement signed by Ms. Bireng.

As a result, all semi-final matches played during the regional tournament—where Onjiko was involved—have been declared null and void. The CDE’s office, in coordination with KCSSSA officials, is expected to provide further directives on how the affected fixtures will be handled moving forward.

The ruling marks a major setback for Onjiko Boys, a school that has been a dominant presence in the region’s secondary school football circuit. It also sends a strong message about integrity in school competitions.

The decision was copied to the principals of both Kisumu Boys and Onjiko Boys, as well as the Regional Director of Education (RDE) for Nyanza, for immediate implementation.