Bob Munro, the visionary founder of Mathare United FC and a stalwart of Kenyan football, passed away on Sunday at his home in Westlands, Nairobi. His death was confirmed by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), which hailed Munro as a pivotal figure in grassroots football development in the country.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), the FKF expressed its sorrow:
“We join the football community in mourning the loss of Bob Munro, the founder of Mathare United and a true champion of grassroots football in Kenya. His contributions to the sport and the community will forever be remembered.”
Bob Munro was a true hero of Kenyan football and a selfless leader. Honoured with the Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear (EBS) during Kenya’s 60th Jamhuri Day celebrations, he played a key role in professionalising the KPL and supporting grassroots football development.
— Hussein Mohammed (@husseinmoha) January 19, 2025
A Legacy of Dedication and Impact
Munro, who founded Mathare United FC in 1994, was widely regarded as a selfless leader who played an instrumental role in transforming the Kenya Premier League (KPL) into a more professional and competitive structure. FKF President Hussein Mohammed praised Munro for his lifelong commitment to Kenyan football and his remarkable efforts to uplift young talent at the grassroots level.
“Bob Munro was a true hero of Kenyan football and a selfless leader. Honoured with the Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear (EBS) during Kenya’s 60th Jamhuri Day celebrations, he played a key role in professionalising the KPL and supporting grassroots football development,” said Hussein.
He added, “His legacy will continue to inspire future generations, and we pray for comfort to his family and friends during this difficult time.”
Global Recognition and Honors
Munro’s work in Kenyan football earned him international recognition, including prestigious awards such as the Help for Self-Help Prize in Oslo (1999) and the Play the Game Award for Strengthening the Ethical Values of Sport in Aarhus (2015). These accolades reflected his unwavering dedication to ethical and community-driven football development.
As the long-serving chairman of Mathare United FC, Munro also founded the Mathare Youth Sports Association (MYSA), an organization that has empowered thousands of Kenyan youth through football and community development initiatives.
Tributes Pour In
Fans, players, and officials from across the world have expressed their condolences, highlighting Munro’s immense contribution to the sport. His efforts not only nurtured football talent but also provided opportunities for underprivileged youth to thrive both on and off the field.
Bob Munro’s legacy as a champion of grassroots football and a transformative figure in Kenyan sports will be cherished for generations to come. May he rest in peace
