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Community Event at Camp Toyoyo to Celebrate Otieno’s Legacy and Launch Petition for Head of State Commendation
Residents and football lovers from Eastlands, Nairobi, are organizing a special event on Sunday, 11th May 2025 at Camp Toyoyo grounds. The event aims to honor former Harambee Stars captain Musa Otieno—fondly known as “Otero”—for his outstanding contributions to football and society. It will also kick off a petition calling on President William Ruto to award him the Head of State Commendation (HSC), a national honor.
Musa Otieno has been a key figure in Kenyan football for decades. He served as a long-time captain of the national team, Harambee Stars, and earned 105 caps—more than any other player in the country’s history. His leadership on and off the pitch has inspired countless young players, especially in Eastlands where he grew up and still gives back.
Today, Otieno runs the Kick Off to Hope football academy in Makadara, located at his former primary school, Dr. Kraph. The academy is committed to developing young football talent and has already produced players who have gone on to play professionally, including internationally.
Throughout his football journey, Otieno played for top Kenyan Premier League teams like Kenya Breweries (now Tusker FC) and AFC Leopards. He also represented local teams like Alfa Salvo in Makongeni and was part of the early Ofafa Jericho generation of footballers.
In addition to his playing career, Otieno has held coaching roles with the national men’s team (Harambee Stars) and the women’s national team (Harambee Starlets). He is also a certified FIFA and CAF instructor. His commitment to nurturing talent and his professional conduct have made him a role model for generations.
Martin Karau Kang’ara, the convener of the initiative under the group Friends of Musa Otieno, called on Kenyans to support the campaign by signing the petition between 8th and 14th May 2025. The petition will be presented to the President on 15th May 2025.
“We believe honoring Musa with the HSC will not only recognize his achievements but also motivate future generations to pursue excellence in sports,” said Kang’ara.
Petition forms are available at various community sports grounds, including City Stadium, Camp Toyoyo, Uhuru Estate, Maringo Estate, Hamza, Makongeni, and Mbotela. An online link to the petition will also be shared soon.
Kenn Okaka, a former head of media and communication at Football Kenya Federation (FKF), also praised Otieno’s contribution to football. He recalled how Otieno mentored many players and helped them secure playing opportunities, particularly in South Africa, where he played for Santos FC for several years.
“Musa has always carried himself with discipline and professionalism. He’s a true role model,” said Okaka. “As someone who’s known him since his early days with Alfa Salvo, I fully support this call to award him.”
Organizers are urging football fans across the country to not only sign the petition but also to encourage friends, teammates, and family members to do the same.