Mathare United founder Bob Munro was eulogized on Monday ahead of his cremation on Tuesday at Kariokor Crematorium in Nairobi.
Munro, 82, passed away on 19 January at his Westlands residence after battling respiratory illness for a long period.
Munro’s widow, Ingrid Sofia Munro, led the tributes describing him as loving, charismatic and devoted to giving back to the community.
Ingrid was joined by family members, political leaders, football fans, coaches, former and current players and Mathare United Sports Academy (MYSA), which he founded in 1987.
“He had been ailing for a while and on that day, he got worse and he called an ambulance. While we were waiting, I was holding him in my arms and he said ‘Oh Ingrid I’m dying’. But I replied ‘No, you are not’ and then he went quiet,” said Ingrid.
“I thought maybe he was unconscious. When the medics came and looked at him, they confirmed that he had died,” she added.
Harambee Stars interim coach Francis Kimanzi heaped praise on the Canadian crediting him for his guidance with shaping his coaching career.
“I was the first captain of Mathare United and Munro challenged me on how to become a great leader including the need to look decent. I had to shave my dreadlocks to show decency and leadership. I have borrowed a lot from him,” said Kimanzi
Munro was strict on timekeeping as attributed by Mathare United CEO Jacktone Obure.
“He was so keen on everything we did on and off the pitch. He always called during breaks whenever he didn’t attend the match. I started working with him in 2009 and if he gave you an assignment, you better be done by deadline,” said Obure.
Mathare Youth Sports Association (MYSA) board of trustees acting chairman dispelled fears that they would go down, insisting that the late Munro had a succession plan in place.
“He set up clear structures that will ensure MYSA survives. We also have enough income-generating activities that will sustain us for the longest time,” he said.
Others who spoke at the funeral service were former Football Kenya Federation (FKF) deputy president Doris Petra saying: “Bob is Kenyan football and football in Kenya, is Bob.”
Aaron Cheruiyot, Kericho Senator, recalled Munro’s disappointment when internal investigations revealed that Mathare United players were involved in match fixing in 2021: “He was disappointed as he really respected integrity of Sports.”
“Bob has left a big legacy, one that I call upon all MYSA faithful and Kenyan football lovers to carry on with. It is our duty, and the best days for what he has left us are ahead and not behind,” said Cheruiyot, who has been a financier of the ‘Slum Boys’.
Referees Associatrion Chairman GMT Otieno said Munro was feared by dishonest individuals In Kenyan football for his transparency.
“I have lost a wonderful person. He is in our hearts and will be remembered forever. His spirit still lives although his body is dead. May he rest in peace,” concluded Ingrid.
