The Deputy Chief of Staff at the Executive Office of the President Eliud Owalo has been appointed to chair the funeral organizing committee for the late Austin Oduor Origi, former Harambee Stars and Gor Mahia captain. Owalo, a close friend of the deceased, will be supported by Sports Principal Secretary Eng. Peter Tum as vice-chairman.
The committee also includes notable figures from Kenyan football such as Gor Mahia chairman Ambrose Rachier, AFC Leopards chairman Dan Shikanda, Shabana FC chairman Jared Nivaton, and Kakamega Homeboyz chairman Cleophas Shimanyula.
Additionally, renowned sports journalists Elynah Shiveka, James Waindi, Mike Okinyi, and Elias Makori, as well as former Harambee Stars head coach Jacob ‘Ghost’ Mulei, have also been named in the committee.
Ex-players who shared the pitch with Oduor, including David ‘Kamoga’ Ochieng, Dr. JJ Masiga, Tobia ‘Jua Kali’ Ochola, and Washington Muhanji, will also assist in the planning process.
The Football Fraternity Mourns Austin Oduor Origi
Austin Oduor tragically passed away on October 16 after collapsing at his home, leaving the Kenyan football community in shock. His death marks a great loss for Kenyan football.
Oduor is the elder brother of former Harambee Stars forward Mike Okoth, and uncle to Belgian international and former Liverpool and AC Milan striker Divock Origi.
Born and raised in Ziwani, Oduor began his professional career with Umeme FC in 1976 before joining Gor Mahia in 1980. Known as “Makamu” for his early role as deputy captain, Oduor quickly rose through the ranks to become one of the most respected captains in Gor Mahia’s history.
Among his greatest accomplishments was leading Gor Mahia to a Mandela Cup triumph in 1987, defeating Tunisia’s Esperance. He also captained the team to three consecutive Kenyan Premier League titles between 1983 and 1985. On the national stage, Oduor was instrumental in helping Harambee Stars qualify for three consecutive Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments an unmatched feat to date.
Oduor’s legacy extends far beyond his achievements on the field. His leadership and contributions to Kenyan football have solidified his place as one of the sport’s most revered figures.
Key Figures in the Funeral Committee:
- Eliud Owalo – Chair
- Eng. Peter Tum – Sports Principal Secretary, Vice Chair
- Ambrose Rachier – Gor Mahia Chairman
- Dan Shikanda – AFC Leopards Chairman
- Jared Nivaton – Shabana FC Chairman
- Cleophas Shimanyula – Kakamega Homeboyz Chairman
- Elynah Shiveka, James Waindi, Mike Okinyi, Elias Makori – Sports Journalists
- Jacob ‘Ghost’ Mulei – Former Harambee Stars Head Coach
- Former players: David ‘Kamoga’ Ochieng, Dr. JJ Masiga, Tobia ‘Jua Kali’ Ochola, Washington Muhanji
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