Former Kenya Sevens head coach Benjamin Ayimba is dead. He was 44.
The former Kenya Rugby Sevens head coach Benjamin Ayimba died while undergoing treatment for cerebral malaria at a Nairobi hospital Friday evening, bringing to an end his brave battle with illness for the last three months.
Family spokesman Oscar Osir confirmed Ayimba’s death, telling the Kenya Rugby Union.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Benjamin on Friday 21 May 2021.
He was born on 27 August 1976.
President Uhuru Kenyatta has sent a message of condolence to the family, friends and relatives of celebrated rugby coach Benjamin Ayimba who passed away on Friday night at a Nairobi hospital. pic.twitter.com/nY3247IjD9
— State House Kenya (@StateHouseKenya) May 22, 2021
We have lost a great patriot in Benjamin Ayimba. Prior to taking up coaching he had an illustrious career as a Rugby 15s and 7s international.
As coach he led Kenya to their first World Sevens Series title when they beat Fiji at the Singapore Sevens in 2016. pic.twitter.com/a4vMPQUzhN
— Raila Odinga (@RailaOdinga) May 22, 2021
We celebrate the life of a star and one of the world’s greatest sportsmen in history. Benjamin Ayimba was a gifted rugby player and coach with incredible drive and vigour towards attaining his goals. We will cherish his competitive mentality and accomplishments. pic.twitter.com/553hijGS3P
— William Samoei Ruto, PhD (@WilliamsRuto) May 22, 2021
Benjamin Ayimba was an incredibly special part of rugby in Kenya, he will forever be remembered for his outstanding pace and skill, his strength as a player and coach, and his kind and genuine nature both on and off the field. May his soul rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/2mIAP4Pppz
— James Orengo (@orengo_james) May 22, 2021
Benjamin Ayimba came through for us in our first ever successful Kitui 7s in 2018. He become a dependable partner and an integral part of the tournament.
As head coach, he led Kenya to its first ever World 7s Series title in 2016 in Singapore. Kenya trounced Fiji in the finals pic.twitter.com/3S9IXUpNWO
— Charity Ngilu (@mamangilu) May 22, 2021
