Former Harambee Stars internationals Victor Wanyama and McDonald Mariga headlined the Ezekiel Otuoma Memorial 7-a-Side Tournament held on January 5, 2025, at the ABSA Grounds in Nairobi. The event was organized to celebrate the life and legacy of the late Ezekiel Otuoma, a revered figure in Kenyan football, while providing a platform for fans, players, and football enthusiasts to come together for a day of exhilarating action.
Honoring a Football Legend
Ezekiel Otuoma, a prolific forward who graced Kenyan football with his exceptional talent, passed away on December 21, 2024, after a prolonged battle with Motor Neuron Disease. The disease had left him confined to a wheelchair in his final years, but his indomitable spirit and love for the game remained an inspiration to many.
Otuoma’s career spanned several top Kenyan Premier League clubs, including Ulinzi Stars, Western Stima, Muhoroni Youth FC, AFC Leopards, FC Talanta, and Ushuru FC. His contributions on the field were marked by his skill, determination, and an unwavering commitment to the sport.
A Day to Celebrate Football and Legacy
The memorial tournament saw participation from fans, local players, and football legends, who paid tribute to Otuoma’s enduring impact on the sport. Victor Wanyama and McDonald Mariga, two of Kenya’s most celebrated football exports, expressed their deep admiration for Otuoma during the event.
“This tournament is not just about football; it’s about celebrating the life of a man who gave so much to the game and inspired many of us,” said Wanyama.
Mariga added, “Otuoma was a true warrior on the pitch. It’s heartbreaking to lose him, but today is about keeping his memory alive and supporting his family.”
Farewell Plans
The late footballer will be laid to rest on January 11, 2025, in Gem, Siaya County. The burial is expected to bring together family, friends, former teammates, and the wider football community to bid a final farewell to the beloved player.
Remembering Ezekiel Otuoma
Otuoma’s passing leaves a void in the Kenyan football fraternity, but his contributions to the game will remain etched in the hearts of many. From his dynamic performances on the field to his resilience in the face of adversity, Otuoma’s story is one of inspiration and dedication.
As the football community rallies to celebrate his life and support his family, events like the Ezekiel Otuoma Memorial Tournament serve as a reminder of the unifying power of sports and the lasting legacy of those who dedicate their lives to the beautiful game.
