Esteen Andanyi: From Rugby Captain to Royal Navy Recruit

Esteen “Mchawi” Andanyi has completed the Royal Navy’s initial 10‑week basic training and will continue his career in military service with a specialisation in Marine Engineering.

Andanyi’s rugby career began at Nyang’ori High School, where he captained the school team and developed a reputation for leadership and competitive drive. He continued to demonstrate these qualities at Chuka University, leading the Chuka Vikings to repeated success in the Kenya University Sports Association (KUSA) Games. 

These early experiences established him as both a skilled player and a dependable leader. At club level, Andanyi played for Kisumu RFC before joining Western Bulls, a well-regarded team in Kenya’s rugby circles. With the Bulls, he reached the semi-finals of the Christie’s 7s tournament under coach Obi Solo, an achievement remembered as a highlight in the club’s history. 

Nicknamed “Mchawi” , Swahili for “magician” , he was admired for his speed, versatility and tactical awareness on the field. Now focusing on his military career, Andanyi is advancing to Phase Two of Royal Navy training with a specialisation in Marine Engineering.

He is also expected to play for the Royal Navy Rugby Team, maintaining a connection to the sport that has defined much of his life.