The football community in Malaba is mourning the sudden demise of celebrated goal poacher Godfrey Karakach Igody, alias “Rasta,” a former Boca Juniors player.
Igody was discovered dead under mysterious circumstances in his rented house in Malaba, as revealed by former Boca Juniors coach Altaf Bachu on Tuesday.
Coach Bachu recalled spotting Igody’s talent when he was just 11 years old, playing for Boca Juniors’ under-13 team. During a friendly match against Mumias Olympics in 2008, Igody’s brilliance shone through as he scored four goals in a 7-1 victory for Boca Juniors.
“His star continued to rise a year later during a tournament in Malaba, Uganda, where scouts from English Premier League side Liverpool watched him in action. Although Boca’s under-13 team lost 2-0 in the final to hosts Hirens, Igody left a lasting impression,” Bachu recounted.
Igody also participated in a 14-team tournament hosted by Nzoia Junior Team, where Boca Juniors won 13 out of 14 matches, a feat that remains historic for the club.
After graduating to the senior team, Igody caught the attention of then-Sony Sugar coach Francis Baraza, though technical changes within the club ultimately dashed his dreams of joining the top-tier side.
Moses Imai, who coached Boca Juniors alongside Okoit Lok’Etyang until 2017, described Igody as an extraordinary player capable of scoring goals effortlessly. “Igody’s contributions were instrumental in guiding Boca Juniors to Division One before he decided to retire, even though his services were still in demand,” Imai said.
Igody’s illustrious career included playing friendly matches against Ugandan sides Mbale Heroes and MIDA, as well as Kenyan Premier League teams Nzoia Sugar FC and Kakamega Homeboyz.
The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Busia Branch Chairman, Eugene Okello, expressed deep sorrow over Igody’s passing.
“It is with profound sadness that the federation extends its condolences to Igody’s family, Boca Juniors FC, and the entire Malaba community. The soccer fraternity has lost an icon. May his soul rest in peace, and may his legacy inspire future generations,” Okello said.
The loss of Igody leaves an indelible mark on the Malaba soccer fraternity, with his legacy continuing to inspire both players and fans.
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