This archive report was first published on 18 July 2019.
On July 17, 2019, Raila Odinga led a memorial service for Joe Kadenge at Friends Church in Nairobi, where he proposed renaming City Stadium to Joe Kadenge Stadium.
Speaking at the service, Raila said the country's oldest stadium should be modernized and named after the man who made his name on its court. He envisioned a statue of Kadenge greeting visitors as they enter the stadium.
President Uhuru Kenyatta sent a condolence message, and Raila promised to host a series of Kadenge memorial tournaments, starting with a match between a team of elders and a professional team.
Speakers at the service, including Musalia Mudavadi, paid tribute to Kadenge and called for improved welfare for soccer players and the establishment of a national Hall of Fame.
The memorial service was attended by several prominent figures, including Vihiga Senator George Khaniri and Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris.
