The requiem mass of Mildred Wanyama, the mother of Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Vice President McDonald Mariga and former Harambee Stars captain Victor Wanyama, is underway at the Mariakani Christian Centre in South B, Nairobi County.
The service, which began on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, is being presided over by the Church of God East Africa (EA) in Kenya and is set to conclude at 5:00 pm.
Mildred passed away on Saturday morning, June 14, 2025.
Speaking during his visit to the family on June 30, 2025, FKF President Hussein Mohammed expressed his condolences and pledged the Federation’s support.
“Earlier today, together with several FKF chairpersons and officials, I paid a courtesy visit to the Wanyama family as they prepare for the burial of Mama Mildred Wanyama. We stand with them during this difficult time and pray for strength and comfort. On behalf of the Football Kenya Federation, I assured the family of our full support,” he said.
Who is Mildred Wanyama?
Wanyama was married to former AFC Leopards legend Noah Wanyama, and together they nurtured a sporting dynasty.
Apart from Victor and Mariga, she was also the mother of Thomas and Sylvester, both of whom pursued professional football careers.
Her daughter Mercy is a standout basketball talent who has flown the Kenyan flag high in international competitions.
She was a devoted supporter of her sons and was often seen cheering them on from the sidelines during their matches.
Mildred, a notable sports personality in her own right, was a netball player during her youth in the 1970s. She was married to Noah Wanyama, also a sportsman who played football for AFC Leopards.
Together, the couple had five children: four boys and one girl, all of whom followed in their parents’ athletic footsteps.
Their sons, Mariga, Victor, Thomas, and Sylvester Wanyama, are all celebrated footballers, while their daughter, Mercy Wanyama, is a professional basketballer currently playing in Spain.
Beyond her role as a devoted mother, Mildred was a trailblazer in women’s sports administration, holding senior leadership positions within netball.
Notably, she served as the president of the Kenya Netball Federation from 2014 to 2018.
