By Bob Amalemba
Barely two weeks into his new role, Kakamega High School’s Chief Principal, Dr. Elphas Aliva, has hit the ground running with a clear plan to restore the glory of the legendary Green Commandos football team.
Dr. Aliva, himself an alumnus of Musingu High School, understands the fierce rivalries that define Kakamega County’s football heritage. Having once stood on the other side of the pitch, he now shoulders the responsibility of guiding the Green Commandos back to their national dominance.
True to his reputation for blending academic and sporting excellence, Dr. Aliva has already strengthened the Commandos’ technical bench. He has brought in a teacher from Mukumu Boys and lured Kevin Asuba from Shanderema Secondary—two tacticians who know how to identify and polish raw talent. They now join forces with long-serving coaches Enock Lucheveloli popular as “Luche” and Sammy Nyakwar, a combination many believe could spark the long-awaited revival.
The rebuilding is already in motion. In just one month, Luche has tapped more than 30 promising players from Junior Secondary School and discreetly secured fresh recruits from neighboring schools. The shake-up is aimed at replacing recent exits, among them captain Rodgers Saliba, who is on the verge of completing his studies, and midfield sensation Wayne Otele, who left for the USA after securing a sports scholarship.
Rumors of a bold attempt to lure Butere Boys’ prolific striker Bukaiya “Browny” fizzled out after Butere’s administration stood firm, but the ambition itself signaled Kakamega’s intent to restore its sharp edge.
The stakes are high. In Kakamega County, schoolboy football is a way of life, and three names dominate the landscape: Kakamega(GC), Butere (Exodus), and Musingu (Scorpions)—the county’s “big three.” Their derbies are more than matches; they are battles for identity, tradition, and bragging rights. For decades, the Green Commandos carried that banner proudly, producing national titles and iconic alumni who went on to play for Harambee Stars and top clubs. Now, under Dr. Aliva’s stewardship, many believe the Commandos are poised for another golden era.
Beyond football, the new principal’s leadership style is winning hearts. Known for his humility, inclusivity, and open-door policy, Dr. Aliva relates to staff and teachers like family, despite his towering academic and professional credentials. His presence has already calmed nerves at the institution, creating an atmosphere of unity and renewed purpose.
From the classrooms to the football field, optimism runs high at Kakamega High. And for the Green Commandos faithful, the hope is simple—that under Dr. Aliva, their beloved team will rise once more, reclaiming its place at the summit of Kenyan schoolboy football.