Gor Mahia and Harambee Stars midfielder Austin Odhiambo may have his name commemorated at the highly discussed Baba Dogo playing ground.
This follows a promise from President Dr. William Ruto to construct the playing ground through the Ministry of Sports. During a light-hearted lunch with the Harambee Stars, after their impressive performance in the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 tournament, the President made this announcement.
In a jovial moment with the team, the President was heard saying that the ground will be built to specifications and named “Austin,” which elicited laughter and joy among the players.
“Hiyo Kiwanja ya Baba Dogo, nimeambia wazizi aende atafute pesa atengeneze and tuweke jina hapo, Austin” (That field of Baba Dogo, I have asked the Cabinet Secretary to go look for money, then we build it and name it Austin),” the President was quoted saying.
Baba Dogo playground, located along Lucky Summer Baba Dogo Road in Nairobi, has been at the center of a prolonged legal and emotional struggle between the Kenafric Group and local residents.
Tensions escalated last month as residents clashed with police during demonstrations against evictions from the field. However, the President intervened, halting the eviction process and directing security agencies to withdraw from the area.
“I have ordered the police to retreat from that field because it belongs to the public,” President Ruto said during his visit to the ground on July 17, 2025.
Baba Dogo playground has produced some of Kenya’s most talented footballers, including Michael Olunga, Alpha Onyango, Austine Odhiambo, and others. Upgrading this facility will mark a significant milestone for the Kenyan football community.