Tributes continue to pour in for Kenyan footballer Ezekiel Otuoma, who passed away at the age of 31 after a prolonged battle with Motor Neurone Disease (MND). Otuoma’s death, which occurred on Saturday morning, has left the football community in mourning. He was widely remembered not only for his talent on the field but also for his strength and resilience off it, which inspired many during his career and in the years following his diagnosis.
Otuoma, who had a distinguished career in the Kenyan Premier League, played for several clubs including AFC Leopards, Ulinzi Stars, FC Talanta, and the now-defunct Western Stima. His football journey began at Muhoroni Youth and Western Stima, where he gained prominence as a formidable striker. His performances earned him a call-up to the Kenya Under-23 team in 2015, and he was also included in the Harambee Stars provisional squad for international friendlies in 2017. His skill and determination on the field made him a tough opponent for many, and he was known for his lethal prowess in front of goal.
As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from all corners of the football world. AFC Leopards, one of Otuoma’s former clubs, shared a heartfelt post expressing their sorrow. The club offered their condolences to his family and supporters, stating, “We pray that the Almighty comforts and strengthens the Otuoma family, his friends, and supporters. Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones and the whole football fraternity. Rest in Peace, Otuoma.”
Kakamega Homeboyz FC also paid tribute to the late striker, recalling his contributions to the game. The club described him as a “tough opponent” whose impact on the field would not be forgotten. “Otuoma will be remembered for his lethal prowess, which made him a tough opponent to face on several occasions,” the tribute read.
Sofapaka FC, another of Otuoma’s former teams, honored his memory by emphasizing his fighting spirit. The club posted a tribute that read, “Batoto ba Mungu is sending love and strength to the family of Ezekiel Otuoma. A true warrior both on and off the field. A fighter has left us, but his memories will remain etched in our hearts forever. Rest in peace, Ezekiel Otuoma.”
Otuoma’s struggle with MND, a rare and debilitating neurological condition, was well known among his friends and teammates. Despite the disease gradually robbing him of his mobility, his love for football remained undiminished. Even as his condition worsened, Otuoma continued to attend matches, supported by his wife, Racheal, who stood by him throughout his illness. In an emotional TikTok post, Racheal shared her heartbreak, stating, “Though it was so soon, that really broke my heart. You left on my birthday, and it will never be the same again. You never said goodbye. In life, I loved you dearly, and in death, I love you still.”
The Kenya Footballers Welfare Association also mourned the loss of their member and former player, offering their condolences to Otuoma’s family and the Kenyan football fraternity. The association described his passing as a great loss to the sport and expressed their sympathy for those who had been touched by his life and career.
Harambee Stars captain Michael Olunga shared a personal tribute, calling Otuoma a “champion” who inspired many young players with his skill and determination. “Rest in peace, champ,” Olunga wrote, accompanied by a photo of Otuoma in his Western Stima jersey.
Other Kenyan Premier League clubs, such as KCB FC and FC Talanta, also expressed their sorrow and paid tribute to Otuoma’s contributions to football. His legacy, they noted, would continue to resonate within the football community for years to come. Otuoma’s passion for the game and his resilience in the face of adversity left an indelible mark on the sport.
The impact of Otuoma’s death has also sparked discussions about the need for greater support for retired players, particularly those facing career-ending ailments like MND. Kenyan sports officials, including the Minister for Sports, have called for the establishment of a pension plan for retired players, to ensure that those who have given so much to the game are supported in their later years.
Otuoma’s passing is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of supporting athletes both during and after their careers. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and those who were inspired by his dedication to the sport. The football fraternity will continue to honor his memory, remembering him as a true warrior both on and off the field.
