Hundreds of mourners, on Saturday, gathered at Gisambai Primary School grounds in Soliani village, Vihiga for the burial ceremony of football legend Joe Kadenge.
Several leaders including the country’s top football administrators, ODM leader Raila Odinga, ANC leader Musalia Mudavadi and worker’s union boss Francis Atwoli were in attendance.
Kadenge's family eulogised him as a hero as well as a caring man, who despite his many challenges, was a loving husband and a grandfather.
Mourners reiterated calls to have Nairobi’s City Stadium renamed after him and a statue erected in honour of his cherished service for the country.
Kadenge died on July 7, 2019, at the Meridian Hospital in Nairobi after a long battle with cancer.
Kadenge commenced his football career as an attacking midfielder and second striker for the defunct Maragoli United, before crossing over to Abaluhya United (now referred to as AFC Leopards) in 1964.
Kadenge was AFC Leopard’s no.7 player in the club in his heyday.
He is remembered for his silky skills, deft touches and mazy runs at the centre of the pitch, which resulted in the phrase 'Kadenge na Mpira (Kadenge with the ball)' courtesy of renown broadcaster Leonard Mambo Mbotela.
He also played for and successfully coached the national football team, Harambee Stars.
He left behind 2 Widows Mable and Maria Kadenge.
Kadenge married Mable in 1959 and together they had eight children. Maria and Kadenge had three children.
