Deputy Chief of Staff Eliud Owalo visited former Harambee Stars midfielder and AFC Leopards skipper Martin Imbalambala, a once-dominant force in Kenyan football, who lost eyesight in 2018.
The visit, which was at Imbalambala’s Hamza home in Nairobi, placed not only the resolve of a fallen star in the limelight but also the compelling need for official support systems for retired disabled sports icons.
The Deputy Patron of Gor Mahia FC, Mr. Owalo, was joined by legendary retired players Mike Amwayi, Mickey “T9” Weche, and Josephat “Controller” Murila.
All of them called for a national awakening, where Kenya’s sporting legends are not forgotten after they had retired from the game.
During the sit-down, the team had a discussion on football, life after service to the nation, bringing out the bitter reality for most of former footballers who were forgotten after years of service.
Imbalambala’s story, marked by the early heights and sudden health challenge, served to remind everyone present about the fragility of sporting careers as well as loopholes in the country’s policy for athlete welfare.
“Martin’s strength of character is truly admirable,” said Mr. Owalo. “His journey is an eye-opener. We need to move fast to create a sustainable model that identifies and looks after our sporting heroes during their years in sport as well as after retirement.”
The former midfield genius, whose commanding presence on the field had thrilled football fans across generations, now lives in secrecy and silence.
His act of bravery has brought forth a stronger argument for inclusion, respect, and continued support for sportsmen and women who have given their last for the country.
Murila seconded the sentiment with a call for shared responsibility: “There is a generation of players whose names once echoed in stadiums throughout this nation. They gave their prime years to the sport, and it’s time the sport and the country gave back.”
Owalo reaffirmed his commitment to pushing for policy shifts through consultation with stakeholders, vowing Imbalambala’s case would not be another sob story, but a turning point.
“None of our legends must be forgotten and I will ensure Martin Imbalambala is not forgotten. We must give all the sportspersons who have represented us with pride a future that does justice to their contribution.”
