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Wanyama has described Otuoma as a "kind-hearted" person who contributed alot to inspiring several youths to chase their football dreams.
Former Harambee Stars midfielder Victor Wanyama has paid glowing tribute to Ezekiel Otuoma, the former AFC Leopards and Ulinzi Stars player who tragically succumbed to Motor Neurone Disease (MND) on December 21, 2024.
Otuoma's untimely passing marked the end of a life dedicated to football and youth development, with many in the Kenyan football fraternity coming together to honor his legacy.
Otuoma, 31, was a talented midfielder known for his speed and ball-handling skills. He played for prominent Kenyan clubs, including AFC Leopards, Ulinzi Stars, Western Stima, Talanta, and Muhoroni Youth. His promising career was cut short in 2020 when he was diagnosed with MND, a condition that weakens the muscles and impacts mobility.
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09:15 - 21.12.2024
Former AFC Leopards striker Ezekiel Otuoma passes away at 31 following prolonged illness
Ezekiel Otuoma has passed away at the age of 31, leaving behind a legacy in Kenyan football and heartfelt tributes.
On Sunday, January 5, a memorial tournament was held at the Absa Grounds along Thika Road to celebrate Otuoma's life. The six-a-side tournament attracted football players, fans, and other stakeholders, including Victor Wanyama and his brother McDonald Mariga, now serving as the FKF Deputy President.
The event raised KSh 262,800 to support Otuoma's family. Another fundraiser is planned for January 8 at the Mbotela Social Hall in Makadara.
Otuoma will be laid to rest on January 11 at his family home in Ramula, Gem, Siaya County.
Speaking to Sports Eye, Victor Wanyama eulogized Otuoma as a player who left an indelible mark on Kenyan football.
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14:36 - 28.12.2024
Former AFC Leopards striker Ezekiel Otuoma to be buried at family farm in Siaya
Ezekiel Otuoma passed away from Motor Neurone Disease, leaving behind a rich football legacy, grieving family, friends and fans nationwide.
“I remember his days playing in the KPL. He contributed a lot to Kenyan football and deserved a proper send-off,” Wanyama said.
Wanyama also reflected on Otuoma's character and influence. “Most people who follow the sport and knew him personally knew he was a good player and a very kind-hearted person. He was a friend who helped invest in youth football, and many looked up to him.”
Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga also mourned Otuoma, leading the football fraternity in paying their respects, with messages of condolence shared by FKF and AFC Leopards.
In addition to honoring Otuoma, Wanyama used the occasion to challenge the new FKF leadership under Hussein Mohammed, assisted by McDonald Mariga, to implement changes aimed at professionalizing Kenyan football.
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Mariga will chare the seven-man comitee to guide the new Federation under new President Hussein Mohammed during this critical transitional period phase.
“What they need to do is professionalize the sport, as well as make changes in the league. I think that will change now that the people who are coming into the office have been there before,” he remarked.
Wanyama highlighted the need to increase prize money in the Kenyan Premier League, which was capped at KSh 3 million last season. “It does not make sense to spend more than that only to earn three million in return. That is the first thing they want to change,” he said.
Follow Pulse Sports Kenya for more sports news updates and analysis.
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