This archive report was first published on 21 October 2019.
On Mashujaa Day, Kenyans celebrate their heroes who have worked tirelessly for the nation's pride. However, the football fraternity, which has contributed significantly to the country's glory, was noticeably absent from the celebrations.
President Uhuru Kenyatta honored world marathon record holder Eliud Kipchoge with an Elder of the Golden Heart medal, but his football counterparts remain unrecognized.
Legendary Joe Kadenge, who is still remembered for his skills on the pitch, was not honored by the Kenyan Government, despite his name being sung by young and old fans.
Former Harambee Stars goalkeeper Mahmoud Abbas, 63, who earned the 'Kenya One' nickname for his goalkeeping skills, accuses the government of abandoning former soccer legends.
Abbas lamented, 'I have attended four last Mashujaa days and received nothing except just praises which doesn’t help me in any way.'
He also criticized the government's attitude of waiting until someone passes away before contributing millions for their sendoff, calling it 'in bad taste.'
Abbas suggested that the government should at least distribute the money they contributed towards Kadenge's burial while the football legends are still alive.
Another legend, Rishadi Shedu, who represented the country as a player and later as a coach, now walks on 'crutches' due to a broken leg he suffered during his playing time.
Shedu recalled his first national team game against Malawi in Blantyre and appealed to the government to provide a medical cover for former players, as they did not receive huge salaries and allowances during their playing days.
He added, 'At least a medical fund will be a good idea for the legends from the government to help us.'
Shedu's plea is a reminder that it shouldn't become a norm that our sporting heroes are only recognized during illness or death.
