Ex-Harambee Stars Player Dies After Prolonged Coma

Football fans at the Kasarani Stadium during an international match.
Football fans at the Kasarani Stadium during an international match.
File
Eddy Mwanza

Harambee Stars' former player Hamisi Shamba passed away on Tuesday, June 30, while undergoing treatment at Kisumu hospital.

Hamisi had gone into a coma on Sunday, June 28, after developing chronic liver and kidney complications,

The star player made his name at Gor Mahia FC where his stellar exploits on the field turned him into a hero.

Gor Mahia Chief Executive Officer Omondi Aduda led the football fraternity in mourning the death of the former international player.

"It's with deep sorrow we have been informed of the demise of our legend Suleiman Khamis Shamba, which occurred this morning in Kisumu, please keep his family and friends in prayers. Rest in Peace legend," reads an excerpt from the statement sent out by Gor Mahia Football Club.

Former Harambee Stars and Gor Mahia FC player Hamisi Shamba.
Former Harambee Stars and Gor Mahia FC player Hamisi Shamba.
File

Shaban joined Gor Mahia in 1979 from Kisumu Hot Stars, where he was profiled as a talented central defender, with his discipline and positional awareness second to none during his prime.

Hamisi was part of all-conquering Gor Mahia squad that participated in the African Champions Cup in 1980 where they defeated Horseed of Somalia in the preliminary round. 

His astute performances in the heart of Gor's backline saw him called up for the national team, Harambee Stars, where he went on to fly the national flag for 6 years before hanging his boots in 1986.

Despite announcing his retirement, his love for the game was undeniable, leading him to serve in the capacity of the vice-chairman of Football Kenya Federation [FKF] Nyanza North Branch between 2012 and 2016.

Before his sad demise, the football legend was working tirelessly towards the development of grassroots football in Kisumu West, where he served at the Constituency Development Fund office.

The body of the late footballer was transferred to the home in Mkendwa sub-location in Kisumu West sub-county, with reports revealing that he will be laid to rest at Mkendwa cemetery as per Islam traditions.

Hamisi is survived by his wife and three children.

Gor Mahia Chief Executive Officer Omondi Aduda.
Gor Mahia Chief Executive Officer Omondi Aduda.
File
  • .