Former Kenyan international Mike “Computer” Wambani passed away today morning, July 2, 2022.
The cause of death had not yet been revealed by the time of publishing. However, reports alleged that he succumbed to an undisclosed illness.
Wambani was one of the most exciting wingers in Harambee Star’s history. The former Kakamega High School and Musingu High School player was a nightmare for defenders.
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His pace, agility and dribbling ability made him sway past defenders who tumbled and struggled to match his skills.
During his time with the Kakamega High School’s Green Commandos, Wambani formed a formidable striking partnership with Milton Orwe Obote and Mike Otieno.
He featured for several Kenyan clubs including then Western-based side Motcom FC and AFC Leopards. In the 1980s, Motcom used to scout some of the best talents from Green Commandos who would then be incorporated into the squad.
As such, Wambani was among the prodigies signed by Motcom FC.
He played for the club for a few seasons, netting over forty goals. In Motcom’s all-time score’s list, Wambani sits third with 41 goals behind Aggrey Litali and Godfrey Osiema who netted 58 and 41 goals respectively.
It is said that Wambani once turned down an opportunity to play for one of the local Premier League sides despite being offered Ksh25,000 with a house as an incentive.
At international level, Wambani featured for the Kenyan National team netting goals at both the youth and senior stages.
He, however, struggled to break into the first team and made some appearances as a substitute or on the bench.
Popular sports journalist Diamond Okusimba eulogised Wambani as a football icon.
“Just learnt of the passing away of former Kakamega High School, Musingu High School, Motcom FC and Harambee Stars explosive winger Mike Wambani aka Computer,”
“Those of us who had the pleasure of watching him from the mid-eighties onwards will forever remember him as an icon of the beautiful game. R.I.P MIKE!!!” read his condolence message.
Other former teammates, coaches, fans and journalists eulogised the lethal forward as one of the best Kenya has ever seen.