Hours after the family of Bob Munro confirmed the passing of the founder of Mathare United on Sunday evening, Kenyan President William Ruto led the nation in mourning and celebrating the figure who brought significant development to Kenyan sports, particularly in the Mathare slums.
Munro, who passed away at the age of 82 at his residence in Westlands, Nairobi had been battling illness for a long period.
According to his family, he had been frequently hospitalized over the past six months prior to his death.
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President Ruto praised Munro, describing him as a cornerstone of the country’s sports community, particularly for his dedication to nurturing youth talent.
“Bob Munro was a pillar of our sports and a firm believer in youth development. His drive to make football thrive in Kenya was extraordinary. Bob expertly spotted and nurtured talents and brought sanity to the game,” Ruto wrote on his social media.
“Our thoughts are with the family and the sports fraternity at this dark moment. Rest in Peace, Bob.”
The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) also expressed their condolences, emphasizing Munro’s commitment to developing grassroots talent.
“We join the football community in mourning the loss of Bob Munro, the founder of Mathare United and a true champion of grassroots football in Kenya. His contributions to the sport and the community will forever be remembered,” they wrote on their social media.
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Mathare United mourned the loss of Munro as someone who left an enduring legacy at the club.
“Mathare United is deeply saddened to share the following on behalf of Ingrid Munro: Rest in Power Bob! We were privileged to create lasting memories together with you for the majority of the 82 years you lived. Your legacy will live on here at Mathare United!” their statement read.
Aaron Cheruiyot, a politician and Kericho county Senetor, also paid tribute to Munro as both a friend and mentor, praising him as a legend.
“Devastated to learn of the death of a friend, mentor, and quintessential football maverick. Words can’t aptly express the affection, respect, and highest esteem I held for Bob Munro. Bob had a clear, razor-sharp mind. His obsessive attention to detail, especially in scouting talent, made him peerless.
He was a colossal figure who inspired generations. Bob’s contribution, both as a patron of numerous charities and a consummate patriot, is immortal,” he wrote on his Facebook page.
“His legacy is secure. He made me fall in love with the Golden and Green – the slum boys of Mathare United FC. I recall interacting with him when Mathare United endured a prolonged struggle in top-flight football (KPL), which led to their relegation.
But Bob remained optimistic, believing that no bad situation couldn’t be turned around. As I come to terms with his passing, I celebrate the rich legacy and the indelible difference Bob made in the lives of those he touched through sports in Kenya and beyond.”
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Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture Mutahi Kagwe also expressed his condolences, recognizing Munro as a visionary who changed Kenyan football.
“I am deeply saddened to learn of Bob Munro’s passing. He was a visionary leader whose work profoundly shaped our nation. As the founder of the Mathare Youth Sports Association (MYSA), Bob championed a cause that extended far beyond sports.
Kenya has lost an icon, but Bob’s legacy will endure through the many lives he touched and the transformative impact of his work. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his soul rest in peace,” he wrote on his X handle.
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