Kenya Rugby League is now ranked internationally and this offers local teams participating in the league the opportunity to compete in events all over the world.
The International Rugby League approved Kenya's entry on February 4. The East African country became the 60th country to gain the recognition of IRL with the status of an observer member.
According to the KRLF Chairman Nyakwaka Adhere, this will create openings for Kenya youth players anywhere in the world.
“Our trainers, match officers and directors now have access to transnational accredited courses and this helps to make the pillars of rugby development in Kenya.
“We started pursuing this cooperation process nine years ago, together with the late Benjamin Ayimba. It is coming to consummation in his absence and I can only dedicate it to him by ensuring his legacy lives on,” Nyakwaka noted.
The IRL clerk general, Danny Kazandjian on his part congratulated Kenya for their development, citing the growth of the sport.
“The blessing of Kenya Rugby League as a member of IRL demonstrates easily the continued growth and appetite for the sport, particularly in the Middle East Africa region.
“I would like to compliment KRLF and welcome them to the IRL community. I know how hard the president and his platoon have worked on this operation and I look forward to seeing them develop and prosper,” Danny noted.
The Middle East-Africa Rugby League Championship (MEA) indigenous director Remond Safi added that he was pleased with the approval.
“I'm pleased that later important significant root, we eventually have an association in Kenya that has been approved by IRL for class.
“It has been a lengthy and complicated process in order to ensure that there's a robust governance process in place for further growth in the country and their presence also strengthens the sport in East Africa,’’ he added.