Tributes trickle after demise of Ulinzi Starlets Head Coach Joseph Mwanza

Football Kenya Federation and other stakeholders are mourning the death of Ulinzi Starlets Head Coach Joseph Mwanza, who died tragically on Friday morning.

News of his demise was released by the Department of Defense (DOD) on the club’s official social handles.

Mwanza had been sick for a long period and had been in and out of the hospital. However, the CAF A licensed tactician managed to help Starlets win the FKF women’s title with a 2-1 win over Kibera Soccer Ladies.

The federation eulogised him as a tactician who dedicated all his efforts to the development of women’s football.

DOD expressed their sorrow following Mwanza‘s death, sending a message of condolences to his family and friends.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the untimely passing of our beloved Sisters Ulinzi Starlets Head Coach, Joseph Wambua Mwanza,” Ulinzi posted on their socials.

Meanwhile, Sports Youth Affairs Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen sent his message of condolences on his X handle.

“I've learnt with profound sorrow the passing on of Ulinzi Starlets Head Coach Joseph Wambua Mwanza. Wambua's impact on the women's game in Kenya is immense, having led Ulinzi Starlets to three consecutive FKF Women's League titles," Murkomen said.

Murkomen said Mwanza’s legacy lives on in the sporting fraternity.

"I extend my heartfelt condolences to Wambua's family, friends, Ulinzi Starlets, and the entire Kenyan footballing community. May God give the family the fortitude to bear this great loss."

Former Harambee Stars Head Coach Jacob ‘Ghost’ Mulee termed Wambua as a hard-working coach who had realised a lot of success with Ulinzi Starlets.

“A very sad morning for football. We’ve lost a successful, hard-working young Ulinzi starlets coach, Joseph Wambua. He has been in hospital undergoing treatment. R.I.P. my friend and a colleague,” Mulee wrote on his social media accounts.