Serani Secondary School emerges as new football powerhouse in Coast region

Serani Secondary School has emerged as the new football powerhouse in Kenya’s Coast Region after clinching the high school title in a nerve-wracking final against Tononoka Secondary.

The showdown, held at Mpeketoni Boys in Lamu County, ended in a 5–3 penalty shootout win for Serani after a 1–1 deadlock in regular and extra time.

Emmanuel Ngala gave Serani the lead in the 50th minute with a precise finish, but Tononoka quickly responded ten minutes later, leveling the score and pushing the game into extra time. With neither side managing a breakthrough, the match was settled through penalties — where Serani held their nerve.

Head coach Alex Shikanga was full of praise for his team, highlighting their resilience and focus throughout the tournament.

“It was a tough encounter. Last year, we dominated from sub-county all the way to regionals, but this year was different. We lost in the county finals despite winning the sub-county level. I am proud of the boys for stepping up and restoring our pride.”

Looking ahead to the national championships, Coach Shikanga said the team is ready to represent the Coast Region with pride. However, he made an urgent plea for financial backing from local leaders and sponsors in Mombasa County.

“We are prepared to compete at the national level, but we need support. We call upon our leaders, including Serani alumnus and Minister for Mining and Blue Economy, Hon. Hassan Joho, to stand with us. Other counties are backing their schools fully. With the right support, we can match the best in the country,” he said.

This marks the fourth time the coaching duo of Shikanga and Swaleh Abdalla "Sunda" have guided Serani to the nationals — following appearances in 2019, 2022, 2023, and now 2025.

In the girls’ final, Mwanambeyu Girls Secondary School pulled off a stunning comeback to defeat Kachororoni Girls 4–2. Trailing by two goals early on, Mwanambeyu rallied in spectacular fashion to secure the regional crown.