Makarios III Riruta Celebrate Former Players' Moves to Kenyan Premier League Clubs

Grassroots side Makarios III Riruta has celebrated two of its former players earning moves to Kenyan Premier League clubs, a reminder of how community football programmes feed the top flight.

Mark Kithome joins Nairobi United

Former Makarios III Riruta player Mark Kithome has completed a move to Nairobi United FC. The club congratulated him and wished him success as he starts a new chapter at one of the league's ambitious Nairobi sides.

Disse Kisaka moves from KCB to Tusker

Another former player, Disse Kisaka, has joined Tusker FC from KCB. Tusker are one of Kenya's most successful clubs and won the 2026 FKF Super Cup, so the move gives Kisaka a chance to compete for major honours. Makarios III Riruta said it was proud of his progress and encouraged him to keep working hard.

Why grassroots clubs matter

Most Kenyan Premier League players began on local pitches, in school teams and in community programmes. Clubs like Makarios III Riruta give young players regular training, competitive matches and the visibility they need to be noticed by bigger teams.

When former players reach the top flight, it inspires the next generation and shows parents that football can be a realistic pathway alongside education. It also strengthens the case for more investment in community pitches, coaching courses and youth tournaments.

How young players can follow the same path

Players who want to progress should join an organised local team, play in school and county competitions, and take part in open trials and tournaments such as Safaricom Chapa Dimba. Consistency, discipline and staying in school are the habits coaches look for most.

What the moves mean for the two players

Moving from grassroots football to the Premier League is a big step. Mark Kithome joins a Nairobi United side that is trying to build its place in the top flight, which can mean more chances for young players to earn minutes. Disse Kisaka's move to Tusker puts him at one of the country's most decorated clubs. Tusker began the season by beating Gor Mahia 3-1 to win the FKF Super Cup, so competition for places will be strong.

In both cases, the first season matters most. Players who train well, stay fit and take their chances when they come on are the ones who earn new contracts. Those who struggle to adapt to the pace and physical demands of the top flight can quickly drop out of the picture.

The jump from community football to the top flight

Grassroots players often notice three big differences when they move up:

• Speed of play. Decisions have to be made faster, with less time on the ball.
• Physical demands. Training is more intense and matches are more frequent.
• Professional responsibilities. Contracts, registration, media duties and conduct off the pitch all come with the job.

Clubs like Makarios III Riruta help by preparing players for these demands early, through regular training, competitive matches and guidance from coaches who know the local game.

Advice for parents and young players

When a bigger club shows interest, families should take time to understand what is being offered. Read contracts carefully, ask about training, accommodation and schooling, and involve a trusted coach. Be cautious of anyone who asks for money to arrange a trial or a transfer. Genuine clubs do not charge players to be watched, and FIFA rules require agents to be properly licensed.

Why this matters for Kenyan football

Every player who moves from a community club to the Premier League strengthens the case for investment in grassroots football. Better pitches, qualified coaches and more organised youth competitions would help more players follow the same path. For Riruta and Dagoretti, the success of Kithome and Kisaka is proof that talent from the neighbourhood can reach the top level.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Riruta?

Riruta is a residential area in Dagoretti, on the western side of Nairobi.

Which clubs did the former Makarios III Riruta players join?

Mark Kithome joined Nairobi United, and Disse Kisaka moved from KCB to Tusker.