Bob Munro: Ruto hails Mathare United founder’s contribution to football arena in moving tribute
By Lutta Njomo, January 20, 2025
President William Ruto has joined the football fraternity in mourning the passing of Mathare United founder Bob Munro.
The Head of State eulogised Munro as a firm believer in youth development who left a rich legacy in the football space as he perfectly honed the ability to spot and nurture budding talents.
In his moving tribute, Ruto hailed Munro for his unique role in bringing sanity to the game. He also highlighted his significant role in developing football in the country.
“Bob Munro was a pillar of our sports and a firm believer in youth development.
“His drive to make football thrive in Kenya was extraordinary; Bob expertly spotted and nurtured talents, and brought sanity in the game,” Ruto’s statement shared on Monday, January 20, 2025, read in part.
“Our thoughts are with the family and the sports fraternity at this dark moment. Rest In Peace, Bob,” it added.
Their last meeting
The Head of State met Bob Munro at State House, Nairobi after the Jamhuri Day Celebrations on December 12, 2024.
During the meeting, Ruto conferred Munro with the prestigious Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear (EBS), acknowledging decades of transformative work in Kenyan football and community development.
His journey to giving to youth, especially from low-income areas commenced in Mathare. After graduating from McMaster University, Munro pursued a career in global development and environmental policy, achieving milestones that left indelible marks on the world stage.
Despite his credentials in the academic field, his legacy and impact were most felt in Mathare.
After moving to Nairobi in 1987, Munro had a firsthand experience of challenges encountered by youth living in the slum. Inspired by his upbringing in Canada and the need to help change the narrative, Munro established the Mathare Youth Sports Association (MYSA).
MYSA used sports as a tool for empowerment and community development hence opening opportunities to people from the slum.
Later, Munro helped to establish MYSA as a sporting powerhouse in the country which nurtured many talents including former Harambee Stars goalkeeper Arnold Origi, Edgar Ochieng ‘fighter’ and renowned keeper turned coach Duncan Ochieng.
The latest exports from MYSA include Eric Johanna who plies his trade with Romanian SuperLiga club, UTA Arad.