Former footballer Ryan Hamisi giving back to the community through goalkeeping clinics

Pumwani is the oldest African settlement still present in Nairobi. Its roots can be traced back to the early history of Nairobi Township, a time when colonial authorities recognized the importance of providing adequate African housing within the city.

The name "Pumwani" originated from the practice of locals frequenting the Social Hall, which was initially constructed as a prison but later repurposed as a community facility. Notably, Pumwani has produced some of the country's top football players, including Jamal Mohammed, Athman Buki, Tyrone Owino, Wilson Obungu, Estone Esiye, and Ryan Hamisi, among others.

Ryan Hamisi, a former footballer who played as a goalkeeper for several clubs across the country, namely Modern Coast, Coast Stima, and Wazito Football, initiated the "Ryan Goalkeepers Clinic" program. This initiative stemmed from his recognition of the insufficient focus on goalkeeper training at the grassroots level compared to field player training.

Hamisi conducts voluntary goalkeeper training sessions at community clubs at least three times a week. During his visits, Hamisi noticed that a majority of the goalkeepers lacked proper goalkeeping gear. Consequently, he began saving money weekly to purchase football boots and gloves, which he then donates to young keepers on various community teams he visits, although he acknowledges that the resources are never sufficient.

"I started this program in 2020, during the Covid-19 period. I realized that grassroots-level goalkeepers lack proper training because most teams prioritize field players, making it challenging to develop top-level goalkeepers," Hamisi shared with Eastleigh Voice.

yan Hamisi, center, in one of the clinics. Photo courtesy

Inspired by his father, a former player and football coach, Hamisi began his football journey at the age of five, attending his dad’s training sessions and matches. While growing up in Majengo, football played a crucial role in steering him away from potential distractions.

"I started my football career as a striker at the age of seven. After witnessing Uprising FC goalkeeper Benjamin Mang'ola's remarkable saves, I aspired to become a goalkeeper like him. He played a pivotal role in my goalkeeping career," Ryan explained to Eastleigh News.

Hamisi ceased playing competitive football in 2020, due to the government's suspension of all sports activities during the Covid-19 pandemic. He was then playing for Coast Stima, a second-tier side, until their main sponsor, Kenya Power, withdrew support.

Following a two-month stint on the coast, hoping for better prospects, he returned to Nairobi, where he ventured into business and coaching. Presently, he holds a CAF D license as a qualified coach and aims to progress to the next coaching level this year.

Ryan Hamisi (first row, extreme left), after graduating from the CAF D License class organised by Football Kenya Federation. Photo courtesy

"The selection to travel to Norway with the MYSA team in 2008 was the highlight of my career. It was an incredible experience to emerge tournament winners while keeping clean sheets in all games. I am grateful to MYSA for the opportunity," Hamisi expressed.

Hamisi aspires to expand his goalkeeping programme, establishing training hubs across all sub-counties in Nairobi. However, resource constraints currently limit his efforts, but he remains committed to advancing the program with the available resources.

"I hope to expand this program to all subcounties within Nairobi in the near future, as well as all over the country in the long term." "This is possible if I get good partners and sponsors, but for now, I will continue to do what I can to help the upcoming goalkeepers." He concluded.