Mulembe Times 05 May, 2025
The Kenyan football community is mourning the death of AFC Leopards Secretary General Gilbert Andugu, who passed away earlier today in Kitengela after battling illness for several weeks. His passing marks a profound loss for one of Kenya’s most storied football clubs and for the country’s sports leadership at large.
According to a statement from the family, Andugu died while receiving treatment in a Kitengela hospital, where he had been admitted since the beginning of May. News of his demise has since been confirmed by AFC Leopards, who announced the tragic development through their official social media platforms, describing Andugu’s passing as a major blow to the club and to the broader football fraternity.
“We are deeply saddened by the news of the passing on of our Secretary General Mr. Gilbert Andugu,” the club said in a heartfelt post. “Our thoughts, prayers and condolences go out to Andugu’s family, friends and relatives. May his soul Rest in Peace.”
Andugu had been serving as the club’s Secretary General since June 2022, when he was elected during the club’s Annual General Meeting. His tenure was marked by efforts to reform internal club operations, particularly around administration and human resources. Known for his calm demeanor and firm leadership, Andugu helped streamline club functions at a time when AFC Leopards was grappling with internal disorganization and inconsistent results on the pitch.
Prior to assuming his role as Secretary General, Andugu was no stranger to leadership within Ingwe’s ranks. He previously held the position of Chairman of Chairmen between 2016 and 2020. During this time, he spearheaded the expansion of the club’s national branch network, growing it from just eight to an impressive 35 branches countrywide. This move was instrumental in increasing the club’s grassroots support and improving coordination with its wide fan base.
Just last month, Andugu had announced that he would not be seeking re-election in the upcoming Annual General Meeting scheduled for June 29, 2025, citing personal and health-related reasons. His death now leaves a leadership vacuum at a critical time when the club was preparing for both administrative transitions and major sporting events.
His passing also comes just days before the highly anticipated Mashemeji Derby—the iconic clash between AFC Leopards and arch-rivals Gor Mahia—scheduled to be held on Sunday, May 11, at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. The match, always a major event in the Kenyan football calendar, will now carry an added emotional weight as Ingwe players, management, and fans pay tribute to their fallen leader.
Football stakeholders across Kenya have expressed their condolences, with many noting Andugu’s significant contributions not only to AFC Leopards but also to the development of Kenyan football at large. Former club officials, players, and fans have taken to social media to share memories of working with Andugu, praising his dedication, humility, and unwavering commitment to the club.
Sports analyst and former FKF official Martin Mugambi described Andugu as “a passionate football servant whose legacy will be remembered for years.” He added, “His vision for a professionally run AFC Leopards was clear from day one. His leadership helped stabilize the club during turbulent times.”
As the football community comes to terms with this untimely loss, arrangements for Andugu’s final rites are expected to be announced in due course by the family. AFC Leopards have indicated they will work closely with the family to ensure a dignified send-off for a man who gave his all to the club.
In a sport often marred by infighting and short-termism, Gilbert Andugu stood out as a rare figure of stability and purpose. His death is not just a loss to AFC Leopards, but to Kenyan football as a whole.
