President Uhuru Kenyatta and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga have led Kenyans in mourning the untimely death of former soccer doyen Joe Kadenge.
Other message of condolences came from Football Kenya Federation President Nick Mwendwa, Gor Mahia chairman Ambrose Rachier, former FKF president Sam Nyamweya, senator Kipchumba Murkomen and Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu, among others.
President Kenyatta described Joe Kadenge as a sports legend and a sublime footballer who applied his talent fully in the service of his country.
Kenya has lost a man who united Kenyans and who brought fame to the country with his soccer artistry.
The soccer legend took his final bow on Sunday at a Nairobi hospital after battling with Diabetic and stroke for years.
Odinga posted in his twitter that Kenya has lost one of the greatest talents to ever grace a football pitch in Kenya national colours.
“Joe Kadenge was a true ambassador for the country and Kenyan soccer. May he rest in eternal peace. May his spirit inspire more young people to pursue the game,”Observed Odinga.
AFC Leopards SC where he made his name and catapulted the forward to national acclaim mourned their fallen hero.
“A legend has rested. We are sad to announce that our legend Joe Kadenge has passed on. Our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends . May the peace of God comfort you at this trying moment,” the club tweeted on their official handle.
In his statement,Mwendwa said “I’m saddened by the passing on of Kenyan football legend Joe Kadenge. His contribution and dedication to the game will forever be remembered and cherished both within and across our borders”
“On my own behalf, he added, and that of the entire Kenya football fraternity, I wish to send my heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Kadenge. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at these trying times, may you find solace in the memories,” Mwendwa said in his tribute.
Murkomen message said in part,”My condolences to my friend and Leyser fc teammate Oscar Kadenge and their entire family for the loss of their father and Kenyan football legend Mzee Joe Kadenge. May he rest in eternal peace.
Charity Ngilu in her twitter handle said ‘’Joe Kadenge is one of the greatest football talents ever produced in this country. He inspired a generation and helped define the great sport as we know it today. Today a legend has rested. We pray to God to give the family strength and fortitude to bear this loss. Rest in Peace”
His death came just hours before Kenyans flocked the Moi Sports centre Kasarani for the eagerly awaited clash pitting home-boys Kariobangi Sharks against visiting Everton FC.A minute of silence was observed before the match in honour of the departed soccer wizard.
Last year, Kadenge was invited by EPL side Manchester United FC when the club marked the 60th anniversary of the Munich Air Disaster that occured on February 6, 1958 when British European Airways Flight 609 crashed on its third attempt to take off from a slush-covered runway at Munich-Riem Airport, West Germany.That marked his last foreign visit.
