- Harambee Stars legends Victor Wanyama and McDonald Mariga lost their mother Mildred Wanyama on Saturday morning, June 14, 2025.
- Mariga broke the news on his Facebook page, stating that the family will provide more information soon.
- Mildred played a crucial role in the careers of her five children including Mariga, Victor, Mercy, Sylvester and Thomas.
Kenyan football legends McDonald Mariga and Victor Wanyama are in mourning following the demise of their beloved mother Mildred Wanyama.
Mariga broke the sad news on Saturday, June 14, stating that she passed away in the morning.
Mariga, who currently serves as the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Vice President, added that the family will provide more information in the near future.
McDonald Mariga breaks the sad news
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“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, who left us peacefully today morning.
We are currently making arrangements and will share more details soon! Thank you,” read his statement.
Mildred, who played a crucial role in the remarkable careers of Victor, Mariga and their siblings was also a sportsperson.
The former netball player was married to AFC Leopards ace Noah Wanyama. Mildred and Noah were blessed with five kids including Mariga, Thomas, Victor, Sylvester and Mercy Wanyama.
The latter is currently playing professional basketball in Europe and has represented the Kenya national team on numerous occasions.
Meanwhile, she supported Victor and Mariga and helped them to play professional level at the highest level.
Wanyama went on to become the first Kenyan to play in the English Premier League when he signed for Southampton in 2013.
The player, who is known as the “Lion of Muthurwa” also had stints with the likes of Tottenham, Celtic and Canadian side CF Montreal.
On the other hand, Mariga made history in 2010 when he won the UEFA Champions League title with Italian giants Inter Milan, becoming the first Kenyan to achieve that incredible feat. The talented midfielder also played with top clubs such as Parma.
Kenyans send messages of condolences to Wanyama family
Shortly after Mariga broke the sad news, tributes from Kenyan football stakeholders started pouring in, with FKF President Hussein Mohammed among the top officials to send condolence messages to the family.
“My heartfelt sympathies go out to the family and friends of my deputy President McDonald Mariga and the entire Wanyama family as you mourn the loss of your beloved mum.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May her soul rest in eternal serenity,” stated Mohammed.
On his part Kakamega County Senator Boni Khalwale described Mildred as a heroine, who will never be forgotten.
“Mama Mildred Wanyama, will be remembered for many things: Matriarch of Kenya’s most famous sporting family, wife to AFC Leopards legend Noah Wanyama (Land Mawe).
Mother to McDonald Mariga, who scored at the San Siro Stadium, going on to win the UEFA Champions League, mother to Victor Wanyama, the English Premier League giant. Fare thee well Mama Mulayi,” commented Khalwale.
The Mariga family is expected to announce the entire funeral arrangements in due course.
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