Obituary – Death – Cause of death News : Former Gor Mahia and Harambee Stars team captain Austin Oduor Origi, popularly known as Makamu, tragically passed away at his home in Mumias on Tuesday night. The sudden death of the football legend has left the Kenyan soccer fraternity in mourning.
Eliud Owalo, the deputy chief of staff of the Executive Office of the President, expressed shock and sadness at the news of Origi’s passing. He remembered the moments he shared with the soccer icon and praised his contributions to grassroots soccer activities. Origi was not just a footballer but a friend, elder brother, guardian, and role model to many.
Origi came from a football family, with his son Arnold Origi being Kenya’s former No. 1 goalkeeper and his nephew Divock Origi playing for Liverpool. His brother Mike Okoth Origi also left a mark on Kenyan football in the 1990s and early 2000s.
Starting his career with Umeme FC in 1976, Origi went on to lead Gor Mahia to numerous victories, including the Mandela Cup in 1987. He was known for deputizing the legendary Sammy ‘Kempes’ Owino and played a crucial role in Harambee Stars’ success, helping them qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations multiple times.
The passing of Origi was mourned by many, including sports journalist Carol Radull and former Supersport journalist Collins Okinyo. Both recalled Origi’s achievements on the field and expressed their condolences to his family.
The legacy of Austin Oduor Origi will forever be remembered in Kenyan football history. His impact on the sport and the lives he touched will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Makamu.
Gor Mahia Legend Austin Makamu Oduor Collapses & Dies at His Home
Former Gor Mahia and Harambee Stars team captain Austin Oduor Origi, fondly known as Makamu, collapsed and passed away at his home on Tuesday night in Mumias. The news of his sudden death was shared by Eliud Owalo, the deputy chief of staff of the Executive Office of the President, who expressed shock at the loss of the football legend.
Origi, who famously led Gor Mahia to victory in the 1987 Africa Cup Winners’ Cup (Mandela Cup), was described by Owalo as a soccer idol and a respected figure in Kenyan football. Just three days before his passing, Origi had visited Owalo at his Gangu Village home in Asembo, where they had discussed various initiatives to support grassroots soccer activities.
Owalo eulogized Origi as a friend, elder brother, guardian, and role model, highlighting the guidance and support he had provided over the years. He extended his condolences to Origi’s family, friends, and fellow football enthusiasts, mourning the loss of one of Kenya’s most disciplined and respected footballers.
Origi came from a football family, with his son Arnold Origi serving as Kenya’s No. 1 goalkeeper for many years and his nephew Divock Origi playing as a striker for Liverpool. His brother Mike Okoth Origi was also a legendary figure in Kenyan football, having represented Harambee Stars in the 1990s and early 2000s.
Starting his football career in 1976 with Umeme FC, Origi later joined Gor Mahia in 1980, where he achieved numerous victories, including the Mandela Cup. He earned the nickname Makamu for deputizing the legendary Sammy ‘Kempes’ Owino. As part of the national team Harambee Stars, Origi played a crucial role in qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations three times.
The passing of Origi was mourned by various prominent figures in the sports industry, including sports journalist Carol Radull and former Supersport journalist Collins Okinyo. Radull paid tribute to Origi’s achievements as a captain of both Harambee Stars and Gor Mahia, while Okinyo shared fond memories of their interactions and interviews.
Origi’s legacy as a football icon and role model will continue to inspire future generations of Kenyan footballers. May he rest in peace.
Who was Austin Oduor Origi?
Former Gor Mahia and Harambee Stars team captain Austin Oduor Origi, fondly known as Makamu, collapsed and passed away at his home on Tuesday night in Mumias.
While sharing the sad news on Wednesday, Eliud Owalo, the deputy chief of staff of the Executive Office of the President, expressed shock at the sudden death of the football legend who famously led Gor Mahia to victory in the 1987 Africa Cup Winners’ Cup (Mandela Cup).
“It is with profound shock that I have learnt of the sudden death of Kenyan Soccer Legend, Gor Mahia and Harambee Stars award-winning captain, Austin “Makamu” Oduor – a soccer Idol,” Owalo wrote.
In his eulogy, he reminisced a courtesy call that Origi, alongside other former international soccer stars, had paid him just three days ago at his Gangu Village home in Asembo.
What was Origi’s Contribution to Football?
Origi started his football career in 1976 with the Umeme FC before joining the legendary Gor Mahia in 1980 where he would eventually lead the team to several victories including the Mandela Cup. It was here that he also earned his nickname Makamu for often deputising the legendary Sammy ‘Kempes’ Owino.
Later joining the national team Harambee Stars, he is famously remembered for converting the final penalty against Malawi to take Harambee Stars to the finals in 1987 during the 4th All-African Games. He was a part of the squad that qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations three consecutive times.
Famously from a football family, Origi was the father of Arnold Origi, who was Kenya’s No. 1 goalkeeper for many years and the only Kenyan to play in Europe for more than 15 years. He is also the uncle of ex-Liverpool striker Divock Origi. His brother Mike Okoth Origi is also another legendary figure in Kenyan football who starred for Harambee Stars in the 1990s and early 2000s.
How did the Football Community Mourn Origi’s Passing?
Other prominent people who mourned the star were renowned Sports Journalist Carol Radull who wrote, “Gor Mahia legend Austin Oduor Origi, also known as “Makamu,” has sadly passed away. He was a former captain of both Harambee Stars and Gor Mahia.”
“Oduor famously led Gor Mahia to victory in the 1987 African Cup Winners’ Cup (Mandela Cup). He was the father of Arnold Origi, who was Kenya’s No. 1 goalkeeper for many years, and the uncle of ex-Liverpool striker Divock Origi. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time,” she added.
Former Supersport Journalist Collins Okinyo shared memorable moments of the star and condoled with the family, “Austin is the father to Former Kenyan International Arnold Origi top keeper and brother to famous Mike Okoth Origi among others. He was a good friend that I did so many interviews with. May the Legend rest in peace.”
**Who was Austin Oduor Origi?**
Austin Oduor Origi, affectionately known as Makamu, was a legendary Kenyan footballer who left an indelible mark on the sporting world. He was not only a former captain of Gor Mahia and Harambee Stars but also a revered figure in Kenyan football history. His leadership skills and exceptional talent on the field made him a household name among football enthusiasts in Kenya and beyond.
**What legacy did Austin Oduor Origi leave behind?**
Austin Oduor Origi’s legacy extends far beyond his time on the pitch. He was a mentor, a friend, and a role model to many aspiring footballers. His dedication to the sport and his unwavering commitment to excellence set him apart as one of the most respected and disciplined footballers Kenya has ever produced. His influence on the game will be felt for generations to come.
**How did Austin Oduor Origi impact the football community in Kenya?**
Austin Oduor Origi’s impact on the football community in Kenya was profound. He not only led Gor Mahia to victory in the 1987 Africa Cup Winners’ Cup (Mandela Cup) but also played a pivotal role in nurturing young talent and supporting grassroots soccer activities. His contributions to the sport went beyond the field, as he worked tirelessly to ensure the welfare of former Gor Mahia legends and promote the development of football in Kenya.
**What was Austin Oduor Origi’s journey in football?**
Austin Oduor Origi began his football career in 1976 with Umeme FC before joining Gor Mahia in 1980. It was at Gor Mahia where he made a name for himself, leading the team to numerous victories and earning the nickname Makamu for his exceptional leadership skills. He later went on to represent the national team Harambee Stars, where he played a crucial role in qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations three consecutive times.
**How did the football community react to the passing of Austin Oduor Origi?**
The passing of Austin Oduor Origi sent shockwaves through the football community in Kenya and beyond. Renowned sports journalists, former teammates, and fans alike mourned the loss of a true legend. Tributes poured in from all corners, with many remembering Origi for his contributions to the sport and his impact on the lives of those around him. His legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
In conclusion, Austin Oduor Origi’s untimely passing has left a void in the football community that will be hard to fill. His remarkable career, his leadership on and off the field, and his unwavering dedication to the sport have left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew him. As we mourn the loss of a true legend, we also celebrate the life and legacy of Austin Oduor Origi, a man who will forever be remembered as one of the greatest footballers Kenya has ever produced.