Top 10 Most Iconic Players in Shabana FC History (And Where They Are Now)

From the roaring stands of Gusii Stadium to packed national team arenas, Shabana FC has been the beating heart of football in Kisii and Western Kenya. Over the decades, the club has produced elite-level talent — players who not only defined Shabana’s golden years but left indelible marks on Kenyan football.

In this feature, we dive into the top 10 most iconic players in Shabana FC history, highlighting their career milestones, national and international achievements, and where they are today. This retrospective is a nostalgic ride for Tore Bobe faithful — and a testament to the club’s historic impact.

1. Henry MotegoMotego



Position: Striker
Years at Shabana: Mid-1980s to early 1990s

Achievements:

• Led Shabana to promotion to the top flight in 1987.

• Scored over 40 goals in his time with Shabana.

• Became a Harambee Stars regular, featuring in multiple CECAFA and AFCON campaigns.

• Played professionally in Oman with Al-Oruba SC — one of the few exports from the Gusii region at the time.

Where He Is Now:

After retiring, Motego coached several Kenyan clubs and served in technical roles with Posta Rangers and FKF. He’s respected for mentoring young talent and advocating for football development in Nyanza.

2. Sammy “Kempes” Onyango

Position: Winger
Years at Shabana: Early 1980s

Achievements:

• One of Shabana’s first household names in the top division.

• Transferred to Gor Mahia, where he won the 1987 Mandela Cup (now CAF Confederation Cup).

• Represented Harambee Stars in over 50 matches, scoring crucial goals in CECAFA and AFCON qualifiers.

Where He Is Now:

Kempes tragically passed away in 2002 in a road accident. His name lives on in Kenyan football folklore as one of the most naturally gifted wingers ever produced.

3. Zedekiah “Zico” Otieno

Position: Defender
Years at Shabana: Early 1990s

Achievements:

• Commanded Shabana’s backline during their consistent Premier League campaigns.

• Became vice-captain of Harambee Stars, playing in multiple AFCON qualifiers.

• Excelled at Gor Mahia as a player and later as a manager.

Where He Is Now:

Zico has carved out a notable coaching career, managing clubs like Gor Mahia and KCB FC. He’s also served as assistant coach of the national team — earning a reputation as a tactical mind.

4. Peter “Pele” Dawo

Position: Striker
Years at Shabana: Mid-1980s (brief stint)

Achievements:

• Known for his aerial dominance and scoring instinct.

• Moved to Gor Mahia where he led them to continental glory in 1987.

• Played abroad in Egypt (Arab Contractors) — a rare feat at the time.

Where He Is Now:

Peter Dawo works in youth football and often appears at grassroots tournaments promoting sports development in Kenya.

5. Tom Juma

Position: Midfielder
Years at Shabana: Late 1990s

Achievements:

• Rose from Shabana to play for AFC Leopards and later for Harambee Stars.

• Enjoyed a successful career in Sweden, playing for Mjällby AIF and Friska Viljor.

• Captained several Kenyan clubs with leadership and consistency.

Where He Is Now:

Currently an assistant coach at Bandari FC and a prominent figure in youth coaching structures across the country.

6. Josephat Murila

Position: Centre Back
Years at Shabana: 1970s–1980s

Achievements:

• A defensive titan in Shabana’s early years of league participation.

• Renowned for his tactical reading and aerial duels.

• Played in several CECAFA Club competitions.

Where He Is Now:

Murila remains involved in community sports and has participated in legends matches that celebrate Kenya’s football history.

7. Mike Okoth Origi

Position: Striker
Years at Shabana: Late 1980s

Achievements:

• Started at Shabana before exploding onto the national scene with Harambee Stars.

• Played over 100 matches in Belgium for KV Oostende and KRC Genk.

• Scored 28 goals for Kenya, becoming a national hero.

• Father of Liverpool and Belgium international Divock Origi.

Where He Is Now:

Now a football agent and mentor in Belgium, Mike is focused on nurturing young African talents trying to break into European football.

8. Charles Omondi “Korea”

Position: Goalkeeper
Years at Shabana: Early 1990s

Achievements:

• Known for his flashy saves and big-game performances.

• Played for Shabana, Gor Mahia, and Kenya Breweries (now Tusker FC).

• Represented Harambee Stars in regional tournaments.

Where He Is Now:

Currently a goalkeeping coach, with stints at KCB FC, Gor Mahia, and Nairobi City Stars. He is highly regarded in coaching circles for his technical expertise.

9. Francis Ouma

Position: Forward
Years at Shabana: Early 2000s (brief spell)

Achievements:

• Won Golden Boot in 2008 KPL with 15 goals for Mathare United.

• Played professionally in Tanzania and for Azam FC.

• Featured for Harambee Stars in World Cup and AFCON qualifiers.

Where He Is Now:

Now involved in youth academies in Nairobi, Ouma helps train strikers and scouts for upcoming talent.

10. Ibrahim Shikanda

Position: Defender
Years at Shabana: Mid 2000s

Achievements:

• Played for Shabana before successful stints at Tusker and Azam FC (Tanzania).

• Represented Kenya internationally as a right back with pace and aggression.

• One of few defenders from Shabana to go abroad.

Where He Is Now:

Shikanda is a certified CAF coach, actively involved in FKF’s talent identification programs and coaching clinics.

Honoring the Legacy

These football icons are more than just names — they’re the soul of Shabana FC’s heritage. From national heroes to international trailblazers, their stories embody ambition, loyalty, and raw talent. As Shabana climbs back into top-tier football, their legacies continue to inspire new generations.

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