Richard Madegwa, a former Kenyan footballer, has passed away on September 28, 2026. He enjoyed an illustrious football career as a defender for Harambee Stars, AFC Leopards, and Tusker FC. Madegwa also transitioned into coaching and technical roles, serving as the Managing Director of KYSA International Soccer Academy. His contributions to Kenyan football spanned multiple decades and various capacities.
Madegwa, known by his nickname "Madez," was born into a family with a strong football tradition. His father, Livingstone Madegwa, was a legendary Kenyan midfielder who played for Abaluhya FC and Kenya Breweries and represented Kenya at the 1972 Africa Cup of Nations. Richard began his playing career with Nyeri Stima, where his performances attracted attention from bigger clubs.
Madegwa's breakthrough came after joining AFC Leopards, where his displays as a defender helped establish him as a prominent figure in Kenyan football and earned him a place in the national team setup. He later played for Kenya Breweries, which was subsequently renamed Tusker FC, further cementing his reputation during an era when the club was among the leading sides in Kenyan football.
One notable story from Madegwa's playing career was how he caught the attention of the national team. Then-Harambee Stars coach Gerry Saurer watched him play against Scarlet FC at Afraha Stadium in Nakuru and was impressed by his ability, particularly a free-kick goal against goalkeeper Washington Muhanji. This performance helped secure his place in the national team setup, with Madegwa going on to represent Harambee Stars primarily during the 1990s.
After his playing career, Madegwa remained deeply involved in football, serving as team manager for AFC Leopards and working as an assistant coach for Kenya's Under-17 national team. He also coached the Kenya National Deaf Futsal Team, extending his contribution to football beyond the traditional game and into disability sport.
Madegwa co-founded KYSA International Soccer Academy with John Katana, based at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, in Nairobi. As its Director of Coaching, he held a CAF National C Coaching Licence and worked with boys and girls aged between six and 23, particularly young people from vulnerable backgrounds and informal settlements across Nairobi.
Madegwa used football as a tool for keeping young people away from social problems, including drug abuse, while helping identify and develop talent. His transition from international footballer to coach, administrator, and youth mentor kept him involved in the sport long after his playing days ended, leaving a lasting legacy in Kenyan football.
Key points
- Richard Madegwa, a former Harambee Stars and AFC Leopards player, has died at the age of unknown.
- Madegwa had an illustrious football career as a defender and later transitioned into coaching and technical roles.
- He co-founded KYSA International Soccer Academy, working with young people from vulnerable backgrounds and informal settlements across Nairobi.
