This archive report was first published on 5 June 2020.
Geoffrey Kataka, a former Posta Rangers attacker, has announced his retirement from football after a 13-year career. The 32-year-old, who also played for Ushuru, AFC Leopards, and Nairobi Stima, among others, has turned to welding as a new career path.
Speaking to the media, Kataka revealed that he had to source for income after football, as it was his only source of income. He expressed his gratitude that his gamble paid off, especially in a business entity that he had no knowledge of.
Having started playing football at St. Andrews Eshikalame Mixed Secondary School, Kataka transitioned to MOSCA FC (formerly MOYAS) in 2007 after high school. He later joined Ushuru FC, the University of Nairobi, and AFC Leopards before joining Nairobi Stima in June 2010.
After a successful stint with Nairobi Stima, Kataka joined Mahakama FC in 2011, followed by Posta Rangers in 2012. He later rejoined Ushuru in 2013-14 and returned to Posta Rangers in 2015-2018. However, he was loaned to Wazito FC in June 2018, where he fell out of favor with his coach and was eventually terminated in September 2018.
With his football career coming to an end, Kataka turned to welding and started his own company, Prigeo Enterprises Limited. The company specializes in making doors, windows, and metallic gates of different designs that showcase real craftsmanship.
As a former striker accustomed to scoring goals, Kataka has now mastered the art of welding, a seamless transition from the football pitch to the harsh life associated with the jua kali sector. He has called on fellow players to seek financial advice so that they don't end up suffering after retirement.
“Players get money when playing football but we don’t think about what will happen after retirement. Most of us depend on that money for our livelihoods. It is high time we invest in business, farming or any other activity that can create a secondary source,” Kataka advised.
