Former Harambee Stars and Gor Mahia captain Austin Oduor Origi, famously known as Makamu, has died at the age of 60.
In an interview with Nation, Makamu’s brother Mike Okoth confirmed the passing on the Kenyan legend on Tuesday.
“I have just received the sad news about the death of Austin and I am very sad. It is shocking since Austin was not sick. I have sent somebody to his home so that I can know what happened,” he said from Belgium.
He was the father of former Harambee Stars goalkeeper Arnold Origi. He was also the uncle to ex-Liverpool striker Divock Origi who is Okoth’s son.
Makamu was a legendary figure in Kenyan football during the late 1980s, captaining both the national team and Gor Mahia where he achieved notable success with both.
Oduor was born and raised in Ziwani Estate, Nairobi. While attending Highway Secondary School in 1976, he joined Umeme FC where he played until 1980 before moving to Gor Mahia.
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At that time, it was challenging for him to secure a starting position due to the talented players in the midfield, including former captain Maurice Ouma, Gideon Hamisi, Ayieko, and Sammy ‘Kempes’ Owino.
As a result, the young Oduor spent much of his time on the bench, coming on as a substitute wearing jersey number 6.
His breakthrough moment came when Gor Mahia faced Bendel Insurance in a match in Benin State, Nigeria.
Oduor took over for the unavailable Gideon Hamisi and espite being one goal down, Gor Mahia managed to win 2-1 with Oduor scoring the decisive goal.
In 1982, Oduor transitioned from midfield to being a central defender following the departure of Mike Ogolla. He was also appointed as the vice-captain, further solidifying his reputation and nickname.
He vice-captained Gor Mahia in 1983 and 1984, during the time which the team clinched the titles. Despite his success, national team coach Marshall Mulwa initially overlooked him for a call-up.
Oduor finally received his first national team call-up in 1985 after Mulwa left the Harambee Stars.
He became Gor Mahia’s captain during the 1984 CECAFA Cup in Sudan when six Kogalo players were banned, including the coach.
Under his leadership, Gor Mahia won the CECAFA Cup, defeating both Al Hilal and Al Marreikh, and emerging victorious against AFC Leopards in the finals.
Oduor rose to national prominence in 1987 when Kenya had an outstanding season, reaching the finals of the 4th All Africa Games where they were narrowly defeated by Egypt.
The dramatic semifinal against Malawi ended in a 1-1 draw, leading to a penalty shootout. Oduor scored the final penalty, securing Kenya’s place in the finals and creating a memorable moment for the nation.
His greatest achievement also came in 1987 when he lifted the Mandela Cup (African Cup Winners’ Cup) after Gor beat Tunisian giants Esperance in the final, as he became the most successful K’Ogalo captain.
Following Harambee Stars’ successful performances in the 1980s, Oduor continued as captain into the 1990s.
Austin Oduor lifting the 1987 Mandela Cup
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In 1990, after Gor Mahia’s head coach resigned due to unpaid wages, Oduor took on the dual roles of player and coach.
He left Gor Mahia in 1991 and spent two years playing in Oman before retiring.
Austin Oduor will be remembered as one of the most successful players, captains and coaches in Kenyan football history.
His achievements include include 3 CECAFA Club Cups, 2 Moi Golden Cups, one continental title, and 6 league titles. His legacy is one that will be celebrated. May his soul rest in peace.
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