Former AFC Leopards goalkeeper Edwin Mukolwe has officially announced his retirement from professional football, bringing the curtain down on a demanding yet meaningful 10-year journey in the Kenyan football scene.
The experienced shot-stopper confirmed his decision through an emotional statement on social, reflecting on a career marked by resilience, sacrifice, and personal growth.
Mukolwe began his professional journey in 2016 when he signed his first contract with AFC Leopards, joining the club straight from Kakamega High School.
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Breaking into one of Kenya’s most storied clubs at a young age was a major milestone and set the tone for a career that would see him navigate both the promise and harsh realities of the game.
From Ingwe, Mukolwe went on to play for now defunct Wazito FC,Bidco United,Nairobi City Stars currently plying their trade in the National Super League and most recently Kakamega Homeboyz, where he featured in the first half of the current season.
Former AFC Leopards goalkeeper Edwin Mukolwe announces retirement
Announcing his retirement, Mukolwe was candid and reflective about his journey.
“My journey as a professional football player ends here. Ten years in the Kenyan football space is no mean feat,” he wrote. He went on to describe the emotional rollercoaster that defined his career, saying, “Ups and downs, victories and defeats, cheers and cries. It has been quite the ride.”
Looking back to where it all began, Mukolwe added,
As I look back to 2016 with my first professional contract at AFC Leopards, I am proud of the strength and resilience I have developed. I have grown a thick skin. I am a better man.” Despite this growth, he admitted there were moments of disappointment, noting,
“I could have given more or loved a fairer ending, especially from a season that I had so much expectation in, but that is life.”
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One of the most defining moments away from football came in December 2025, when Mukolwe cycled over 370 kilometres from Kakamega to Nairobi for three days. The journey, started on December 23rd , was symbolic and deeply personal.
“The ride from Kakamega to Nairobi was preparation for me to make this big decision,” he explained. “I got all the time to really think through my life, what it is and what I would love for it.” Through that experience, he reached a powerful realization: “I understood that some things are just more important than others, and it is imperative that we are conscious and aware of reality early.”
Mukolwe also addressed his what now looks like unfulfilled dream of playing at AFCON 2027, which Kenya will co-host alongside Tanzania and Uganda.
“I had a dream of playing at AFCON 2027, but I guess I’ll have an impact in it from a different capacity,” he said, grounding his outlook in faith by quoting scripture: “We plan, but God decides (Proverbs 16:)
As he steps away from professional football, Mukolwe is optimistic about the future.
“It is time for a new chapter in my life, and I am thrilled to turn a new page. I will be in fitness and living life cycling, running and lifting,” he shared.
Edwin Mukolwe exits the game as he described himself a fighter leaving behind a story that mirrors the struggles and strength of many Kenyan footballers.