Less than 24 hours after lifting the 2025/26 SportPesa Premier League title before a packed and jubilant Nyayo National Stadium, Gor Mahia embarked on a journey that transcended football.
The newly crowned champions, led by club chairman Ambrose Rachier, coaches, officials, and players, made their way to the Karen home of the Odinga family carrying not just silverware, but a promise fulfilled.
In a deeply emotional ceremony filled with memories, gratitude, and celebration, Gor Mahia formally presented their league trophy alongside the ODM Cup won in Mombasa to Mama Ida Odinga, in honour of the club’s late patron, the late Raila Odinga.
For many within the Green Army, it was not merely a courtesy call. It was the completion of a mission entrusted to them by a man whose love for K’Ogalo never wavered.
As emotions filled the room, Ambrose Rachier recalled the club’s final meaningful engagement with Baba Raila Odinga before his passing.
“We were here last year and we had a wonderful time with Baba Raila Odinga and Mama Ida. We remember it very well. We truly appreciate Mama Ida for always welcoming us and taking good care of the team,” said Rachier.
His voice grew heavier as he recounted the difficult period the club was going through.
“Baba asked us why our standards were declining, and we were honest. We told him we were facing serious financial challenges. He cushioned us with some good amount of money and then gave us clear instructions — win the ODM Cup in Mombasa and win this year’s league title.”
As the two trophies gleamed before the gathering, the significance of the moment became impossible to ignore.
“Today, we are here to present the two trophies ordered by Baba Raila Odinga. We are overjoyed that Mama Ida is here to receive them on his behalf.”
For a few moments, football gave way to emotion.
The trophies symbolised more than victories on the pitch. They represented resilience during difficult times, faith in the club’s future, and the fulfilment of a final request from one of Gor Mahia’s most passionate supporters.
Mama Ida Odinga, visibly touched by the gesture, welcomed the champions warmly and assured them that the Odinga family home would always remain open to K’Ogalo.
“I am very happy to host you here at our home, and this should not be the last time you come. Feel free to visit anytime, any day,” she said.
“This is a special day for all of us as we gather here after Baba’s passing. I feel honoured to host you. We have been part of this team for many years, and we remain part of it.”
Addressing the players, technical bench, and club officials, she added:
“To our champions, congratulations. Your hard work, dedication, and commitment are deeply appreciated by everyone, myself included. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this achievement.”
The emotional gathering also featured Raila Odinga Jr., who explained that the invitation was inspired by the overwhelming affection shown to him by Gor Mahia supporters during Sunday’s title celebrations.
“It is a great honour to receive all of you here in honour of my late father, Baba Raila Odinga,” he said.
“Yesterday, I attended the final match at Nyayo Stadium. I was so well received and truly felt appreciated. I felt it would only be right to invite the team here, to share some good moments as we all celebrate this great win. Please, feel at home and feel treasured.”
For generations, Gor Mahia has been more than a football club. It has been a symbol of identity, community, loyalty, and shared dreams across Kenya and East Africa.
On Sunday, K’Ogalo celebrated a record-extending 22nd league title.
On Monday, they celebrated something even deeper.
They honoured a promise.
In carrying the trophies to Karen, Gor Mahia reminded their supporters that while championships are won on the field, some victories are measured by loyalty, gratitude, and remembering those who helped guide the journey.
The silverware now sits as a testament not only to a successful season but also to a bond between Kenya’s most decorated football club and a patron whose final wish was simple, bring the trophies home.
And K’Ogalo did exactly that.
