Football stakeholders have paid glowing tribute to veteran coach Juma Abdallah, who died on Friday morning after prolonged illness.
According to his family, coach Abdallah breathed his last at Thika Level Five Hospital in Kiambu County. His remains were interred on Friday evening in Murang’a County in line with Islamic rites.
“He suffered multiple organ failure due to low blood level and low sugar,” said his daughter Amina Juma.
Before his health began to deteriorate, Abdallah stood out for his imposing physique and welcoming nature.
At press conferences, he never shied to speak his mind, even if what he was about to say would likely court controversy. In one of his last interviews as a coach, he admitted that match fixing was rampant in the top flight league.
In a career spanning two decades, Abdallah was widely credited for nurturing young talents. Among his stand-out achievements was being named the 2013 Kenya Premier League Coach of the Year.
That season, he guided KBC FC to an impressive fourth place finish with 47 points. Gor Mahia won the league with 60 points.
The outspoken tactician coached many other clubs, including Thika United, Murang’a Seal, Sofapaka, Bidco United, Western Stima, Chemelil Sugar and Vihiga Bullets. He also served as an assistant coach of AFC Leopards.
“We mourn the loss of coach Juma Abdallah, a true pillar of Kenyan football, renowned tactician and mentor who’s impact went beyond the pitch. He nurtured and inspired many players, built teams with character, and served the game with passion. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones. The football community has lost a great leader, but his legacy will continue to live on. Rest in peace, coach Juma,” Hussein said.
“We as APS Bomet Family join the Kenyan football fraternity in mourning the passing of coach Juma Abdalla, a respected tactician whose dedication and passion left a lasting impact on the game through his service to several clubs across the country. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family,” Bomet FC said in a statement.
Sofapaka posted: “We take this opportunity to announce the death of our former coach after an illness since the start of the year. We send our deepest condolences to his entire family. Burial will take place today at 4pm in Murang’a.”
Michael Olunga Foundation Academy (MOFA) said: “A dedicated servant of Kenyan football, he touched many lives through his passion and commitment to the game. Our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, former players, colleagues, and the entire football fraternity.”
“Juma Abdallah rose from Majengo in Murang’a town and coaching Bomani FC to training top premier teams like Thika United, KCB, and others. He has passed on but his legacy lives on. We shall all miss him,” Governor Kang’ata said.
Bandari FC said: “The Bandari Football Club family is deeply saddened by the passing of coach Abdalla Juma. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, former players, and the entire football fraternity during this difficult time.”
Sports journalist Meshack Kisenge stated on X: “Coach Abdallah Juma was never one to hold back. He spoke his mind, demanded the best and lived for football. Rest in eternal peace, coach Juma.”
