Ulinzi starlets head coach Joseph Mwanza passes on

Nairobi, 

Friday, 20 September, 2024 

McCreadie Andias 

Ulinzi Starlets head coach Joseph Wambua Mwanza had passed away on Friday morning following a long battle with illness. The club announced on Friday, 20 September.

The club hailed Wambua as a strong leader who led them to immense Sucess since he took over the club management in 2018. 

"It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our head coach, Joseph Wambua Mwanzia, affectionately known as Coach 'Klopp.' 

He succumbed to illness today morning after a prolonged battle. The Ulinzi Starlets family is deeply grateful for his remarkable contributions to the club throughout his tenure. We extend our prayers to his family for strength during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Coach Klopp."Ulinzi Starlets said in a statement. 

Mwanza led Ulinzi Starlets to three consecutive WPL championship titles and one women's cup won last season. 

Sports cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen while mourning Mwanza, described him as a legend who's legacy lives on in the sports fraternity. 

"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. His 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 fortitude to bear this great loss."Murkomen said. 

Ulinzi stars mens team named him as an inspiration to women's football. 

" He was more than a leader on the field he was a mentor, a guiding light, and an inspiration to everyone in the Ulinzi Starlets family and Kenya Football fraternity also.

Under his leadership, the team achieved incredible milestones and fostered a spirit of unity, resilience, and passion for the game. 

His dedication and commitment to excellence will leave an everlasting impact on the lives of the players, staff, Kenya football fraternity and all who had the privilege of knowing him."Ulinzi stars said in a statement. 

During his sick leave, former Ulinzi Stars defender Michael Clive Otieno, Francis Kimanzi, and Stephen Ochola all briefly stepped in.

Mwanza’s coaching journey began in 2016, just a year after his promising playing career was cut short due to a devastating injury.

Starting out with Kahawa Queens, Mwanza quickly proved his ability. His breakthrough came when he took charge of Kahawa United men's team in 2017, guiding them in the County League to an impressive unbeaten run of 23 matches.