Ex-Kenya 7s rugby player, who until the time of his demise worked at RMS, dies aged 37

Allan Makaka, a former member of the Kenya national rugby sevens team, is dead.

Makaka died in a road accident on Friday night (May 22), after his vehicle, a Mercedes-Benz SUV, rammed a long distance commercial truck on Mombasa Road.

Police say the 37-year-old died on the spot, and was found intact on the driver’s seat with a safety belt on.

Until the time of his demise, Makaka worked at Royal Media Services Ltd. as the Head of Sales for Hot 96 FM, the stable’s English radio station.

RMS’s Human Resources Director, Rose Wanjohi, has mourned Makaka as “dedicated team-player, who mentored younger members of his team”.

“Allan joined Royal Media Services on 1st February 2012 as a Business Executive and later became the Business Manager in charge of HOT 96, a position he has served with great dedication, passion and commitment,” said Wanjohi in a Saturday statement to RMS employees.

“Allan has been instrumental in mentoring members of his team who have gone on to excel in their work. His friendship extended throughout the whole organization. He embraced all and interacted freely with everyone.

“We have been in touch with the family to condole with them. We request your prayers and support to the family during this very difficult time,” added the HR boss.

Makaka enjoyed a decorated rugby career that spanned nearly a decade.

He began playing rugby at the now-dissolved Ulinzi, where he was part of the team that won the 2002-2003 National Sevens Circuit.

Makaka, thereafter, joined the Kenya Harlequin, where he helped his team win the Kenya Cup in 2008.

On the national front, Makaka represented Kenya in the 2004-2005 World Rugby Sevens Series, in which he scored the most tries for Shujaa. During that season, Kenya accumulated the most points – 86 – at the IRB series.

Kenya Sevens, through their official Twitter page, have since mourned Makaka, a Musingu High School alumnus, as a “champion”.

“We are deeply saddened by the death of former #Kenya7s International player Allan Makaka who passed away today in a tragic road accident. Our most sincere condolences goes out to his family and friends. Rest in Peace Champ,” said Shujaa.

Makaka, who hails from Kakamega, is survived by a spouse and young son. He was to celebrate his 38th birthday on June 28.

May his soul rest in peace.

The Musingu High School alumni win was also part of the Quins team that won the 2005-2006 National Sevens Circuit.