Kenyan football is mourning the loss of one of its most iconic figures, Austin Oduor Origi, famously known as “Makamu,” who passed away on Tuesday evening.
Oduor, a legendary former captain of both Gor Mahia and Harambee Stars, was a pivotal figure in the golden era of Kenyan football during the 1980s and early 1990s.
The news of Oduor’s passing came just days after he participated in a community project in Siaya County alongside other former Kenyan football internationals, including John “Bobby” Ogolla, Peter Dawo, and George Onyango “Fundi.”
The group was part of an initiative led by Deputy Chief of Staff Eliud Owalo, aimed at inspiring local football teams, Dero FC and Siger FC, with a visit to Nyilima Sports Ground and Siger Primary School.
Owalo, deeply affected by the sudden loss of his friend, reflected on his last moments with Oduor.
“It is with profound shock that I have learnt of the sudden death of Kenyan soccer legend, Gor Mahia and Harambee Stars award-winning captain Austin ‘Makamu’ Oduor. It is only three days ago that Austin and other former Kenyan soccer internationals paid a courtesy call on me at our Gangu Village home in Asembo.”
Owalo added that Oduor had played a significant role in supporting grassroots soccer and was instrumental in establishing the Gor Mahia Legends’ welfare sustainability fund. “I have lost a friend; an elder brother; a guardian; and a role model in life,” he lamented.
Elijah Onsika, a former Shabana and Kisumu Posta player who shared the field with Oduor, described the Gor Mahia legend as a father figure in his football journey.
“I am shocked! It’s sad. I have lost a friend and a father figure in football for me. Oduor is a calm person who saw good in me when I thought I had no future,” Onsika recalled.
He urged the government and county governments to offer support, especially medical cover, to former athletes who contributed to Kenya’s sporting success but now face health challenges in their old age.
Victor Bwire, a Kisumu-based football fan, emphasized Oduor’s contribution to Kenyan football history, particularly recalling Gor Mahia’s 1987 triumph in the Mandela Cup.
“Those players were the real deal. Playing for the badge and love of the game. May he Rest in Peace,” Bwire said.
Oduor’s career was marked by remarkable achievements. He captained Gor Mahia to three consecutive league titles from 1983 to 1985 and reached the pinnacle of his club career in 1987 when Gor Mahia clinched the Mandela Cup, defeating Tunisian giants Esperance in the final.
On the international stage, Oduor was a key member of the Harambee Stars squad that qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations three consecutive times, a feat that remains unmatched in Kenyan football.
As Kenyan football reflects on the loss of a true legend, the memories of Austin ‘Makamu’ Oduor’s leadership, passion, and love for the game will forever be etched in the hearts of football fans across the country. May he rest in peace.
