Mathare FC founder Bob Munro /Photo courtesy/
Kenya’s football fraternity on Sunday 19th, paid tribute to Bob Munro, the founder of Mathare United Football Club and the Mathare Youth Sports Association (MYSA), following his passing on Sunday morning at his Westlands home
Bob was celebrated as an innovative leader who revolutionized the sport, positively impacting many lives. He is remembered for pioneering grassroot and professional football.
Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed described Munro as a hero whose legacy will endure for generations. “Bob Munro was a selfless leader who dedicated his life to the growth of the game.
From championing grassroots football to professionalizing the Kenyan Premier League, his contributions have left an indelible mark,” he said.
Hussein highlighted Munro’s global recognition, including the Help for Self-Help Prize (Oslo, 1999) and the Play the Game Award (Aarhus, 2015), as testaments to his visionary leadership.
The FKF in a statement said that they join the football community in mourning the loss of Bob Munro who they described as a true champion of grassroots football in Kenya. The federation said that Bob’s passion for the sport and his commitment to community development will forever be remembered.
Munro’s death was confirmed by Mathare United CEO Jacktone Obure. According to his family, he passed away at his home in Westlands, Nairobi, after battling respiratory complications for six months.
His wife Ingrid Munro, in a statement expressed her gratitude for the love and support the family has received
“My darling husband Bob, as he is affectionately referred to in Kenyan football circles, breathed his last on Sunday, January 19, 2025. A beloved father and grandfather, he was deeply committed to using football as a tool for social change.”
Macdonald Mariga, the Vice president of FKF also sent his condolences to the family of Monro referring him to a hero of Kenyan football.
Mariga said that Munro’s impact on Kenyan football will not be forgotten.
“Sad to learn of the passing of Bob Munro, a true hero of Kenyan football. His impact on grassroots football and the growth of our game will never be forgotten.” He said
The Philanthropist addressed pressing social issues through football, education and community service. Many of the players he mentored went on to achieve local and international success
In recognition of his contributions, Munro was honored with the Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear (EBS) by President William Ruto during the Jamhuri Day celebrations in December 2024.
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