Nemostars bank on experienced coach Okumu for CAVB Continental Campaign

Uganda’s representatives at the 47th CAVB Men’s Club Championship, Nemostars Volleyball Club, will rely on experienced coach Godfrey Owese Okumu as their head coach for the 2026 continental tournament in Kigali, Rwanda.

The club confirmed the appointment on Sunday, expressing confidence in the FIVB Level III expert to guide them against Africa’s elite teams.

“We are honored to have your elite tactical mind leading our charge as we take on the continent’s best at #ACCRwanda2026,” the club stated.

Okumu brings a strong international coaching background, having worked with the Kenyan national team at the World Championship level, as well as with elite clubs in Japan and the Philippines. His appointment is seen as a major boost for Nemostars as they prepare for a tough campaign involving 30 clubs from 17 African countries.

The tournament will run from Wednesday to May 3. Nemostars arrived in Kigali on Monday morning ahead of the technical meeting scheduled for Tuesday.

Okumu said he is ready to guide the Ugandan champions through a challenging tournament.

“I am ready to help the team compete at the highest level, improve tactically, stay disciplined, and show that we belong among Africa’s best clubs. We are focused on performance and growth,” he said.

He also spoke about the importance of facing strong opposition in building confidence and competitiveness.

“Facing good sides gives you the confidence not to fear them again. Right now, we go into games and anyone can win. Actually, they are not far from us,” he said.

Nemostars enter the championship as one of Uganda’s most experienced sides on the continent. The club made its debut in 2013 after winning its first national league title in 2012, finishing 11th in their maiden appearance.

Since then, they have become regular participants, featuring in multiple editions including 2014, 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2025. Their best performance came in 2019 when they finished sixth in Egypt, marking a historic high point for Ugandan men’s volleyball.

This year’s edition is particularly significant as it will be the first time the CAVB Men’s Club Championship is hosted in East Africa, giving regional teams a rare sense of home advantage.

Uganda will also be represented by Sport-S Volleyball Club, as East African sides prepare to challenge continental giants such as Egypt’s Al Ahly and Zamalek, Kenya’s GSU and KPA, and defending champions Swehly Sports Club of Libya.

Nemostars have strengthened their squad with key additions, including Volleyball Cranes stars Daudi Okello and Emma Elanyu. Mark Omara, Hussein Adome, and young middle blocker Titi Okumu are also part of the reinforced squad.

The team finished 19th in the last edition in Libya and will be aiming for a stronger showing in Kigali.