If you have ever walked through Nairobi CBD on a match day, especially after a big Gor Mahia win, you have probably seen something unique—thousands of K’Ogalo fans dancing, singing, and celebrating around the Tom Mboya Monument near the Kenya National Archives.

Many people ask the same question:

Why do Gor Mahia fans idolise Tom Mboya? What is the connection?

The answer is deeper than just football celebrations—it is rooted in history, identity, and the very formation of Gor Mahia Football Club itself.

Tom Mboya Was a Founding Figure of Gor Mahia

Tom Mboya was not just a famous politician and trade unionist—he played a major role in the formation of Gor Mahia F.C. in 1968.

Before Gor Mahia existed, there were two major Luo-based clubs:

• Luo Union FC
• Luo Stars FC

The two clubs were powerful but divided. To create one strong football giant that could compete nationally and regionally, influential leaders pushed for a merger.

Tom Mboya was one of the key figures who helped make that happen.

He supported the unification process and helped bring together the leadership and resources needed to form what would become Gor Mahia. Historical club records even describe him as playing a “pivotal role” in the club’s formation and refer to him as a founder member. (gormahia.net)

That is why many fans see him as part of the club’s DNA.

The Statue Became a Sacred Meeting Point

The Tom Mboya statue along Moi Avenue was unveiled in 2011, close to where he was assassinated in 1969. (The Standard)

Soon after, Gor Mahia fans adopted it as their symbolic gathering point.

Before and after matches, especially after victories, fans would gather there to:

• celebrate wins
• sing club songs
• drum and dance
• meet fellow supporters
• “pay homage” to Tom Mboya as one of the club’s founding fathers

Even Gor Mahia officials have publicly referred to the place as almost sacred, asking fans to respect it because Tom Mboya was a dignified founder member of the club. (Michezo Afrika)

It became more than a statue—it became a football shrine for K’Ogalo supporters.

It Is Also About Luo Identity

Gor Mahia is more than just a football club—it carries strong cultural identity, especially among Luo supporters.

Tom Mboya himself was one of Kenya’s most respected Luo leaders and national figures. His legacy in politics, independence, and leadership made him a symbol of pride beyond football.

So for many fans, gathering at his statue is also about honoring history, identity, and legacy—not just celebrating football.

It represents both club pride and community pride.

Even When the Statue Was Removed, Fans Reacted

In 2020, when the statue was temporarily removed for renovation, Gor Mahia fans were shocked and upset because it had become their traditional celebration point. Reports described it as a “revered meeting point” for fans who visited before and after matches. (allAfrica.com)

That reaction showed just how emotionally attached supporters are to the monument.

So Why Do They Idolise Him?

Simple:

Because Tom Mboya helped build the club.

He was part of Gor Mahia’s birth story.

To Gor Mahia fans, he is not just a politician in bronze—he is part of K’Ogalo history.

That is why after every major win, especially during Mashemeji Derby days, you will still find fans dancing around that statue.

It is not random.

It is tradition.

It is respect.

It is history.

And for K’Ogalo, it is almost sacred.