The cold hands of death has taken former rugby coach Benjamin Ayimba.
Ayimba who has been ailing died at a Nairobi Hospital on Friday, May 21, 2021.
The news of his death was delivered by family spokesman Oscar Osir.
The veteran rugby player and coach was battling Cerebral Malaria.
Ayimba had an illustrious career as a rugby 15s and 7s international, and will be remembered for guiding Kenya to its first-ever World Rugby Sevens Series Cup title at the Singapore 7 – in 2016.
“We have lost a great patriot in Benjamin Ayimba. As coach he led Kenya to their first World Sevens Series title when they beat Fiji at the Singapore Sevens in 2016,” Orange Democratic Movement leader Raila said while moaning the player.
Senate Majority Leader and West Pokot Senator Samuel Poghisio said: “My deepest condolences to the entire country for the loss of our great country man Benjamin Ayimba. May God keep the family strong and united through this tough time.”
Others who moaned Ayimba a real legend included Senate Minority Leader and Siaya Senator James Orengo and Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu. Kisii Governor James Ongwae, Kirinyaga MP John Munene, Makueni Senator Mutula Kilonzo Jnr, Isiolo Governor Mohamed Kuti among others.
Ayimba who was 44 years old, was first appointed Shujaa head coach in 2006 and left in 2011, before having another stint in 2015. He will also be remembered for thrashing Fiji 30-7. Ayimba’s name will permanently be written in the history books as a man who put the country’s name on the world map.