Mildred Wanyama, the mother of two of Kenya’s most prominent footballing figures, Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Vice President McDonald Mariga and former Harambee Stars Captain Victor Wanyama, has passed away. The news of her demise was confirmed by the family.

McDonald Mariga broke the somber news on his X (formerly Twitter) account, indicating that further details regarding the burial arrangements would be shared soon.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, who left us peacefully today morning.

We are currently making arrangements and will share more details soon! Thank you,” wrote Mariga.

Mildred, a notable sports personality in her own right, was a netball player during her youth in the 1970s. She was married to Noah Wanyama, also a sportsman who played football for AFC Leopards.

Together, the couple had five children: four boys and one girl, all of whom followed in their parents’ athletic footsteps.

Their sons, Mariga, Victor, Thomas, and Sylvester Wanyama, are all celebrated footballers, while their daughter, Mercy Wanyama, is a professional basketballer currently playing in Spain.

Beyond her role as a devoted mother, Mildred was a trailblazer in women’s sports administration, holding senior leadership positions within netball.

Notably, she served as the Kenya Netball Federation President from 2014 to 2018.

Mildred Wanyama will be fondly remembered as a devoted supporter of her children, often seen cheering them on from the sidelines during their matches, a testament to her unwavering commitment to her family’s sporting journey.

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