In a thought-provoking social media post, Matthews Ottomax takes us on a trip down memory lane to the early and mid-90s, where an inter-estates football tournament called Oti Father Cup was the talk of the town. The tournament was organized by the late Leo Omar, a local football talent scout who played a significant role in nurturing many established players of that era. Held at Jericho Estate’s Uwanjo Soo ground, the tournament became a platform where promising talents were discovered or rose through the ranks.
During this golden era, a group of Kenyan top football stars formed a team that affectionately named itself “Wenge,” inspired by the popular Congolese band Wenge Musica BCBG and their hit song, Pentagon. The team adopted the song’s catchy line “Aaah TOYOYO, TOYOYO Mama Indilaga Yayee” colloquially to refer to their post-training ritual of enjoying drinks at the nearby Buruburu Shopping Centre.
As time passed, Jericho’s Uwanjo Soo transformed into Camp Toyoyo, a name that paid homage to Barcelona’s Camp Nou, the home stadium of the football giants. Camp Toyoyo became a home to local football giants, with Wenge Stars as one of the prominent teams. As the new millennium approached, Coach Bob Oyugi’s Global Soccer Network emerged, offering talented players opportunities for US College soccer scholarships, which many of Ottomax’s peers pursued.
Reflecting on his missed opportunity to go to the US, Ottomax credits Bob Oyugi and the Almighty God for the success of his peers who made it to the “land of Milk and Honey.” The story of Camp Toyoyo didn’t end there. Nostalgia carried its name across the seas, resulting in the birth of the annual football tournament called Camp Toyoyo USA. Initially, the tournament invited those former stars who played alongside the US immigrants but remained in Kenya.
However, Ottomax raises concerns about the tournament’s current focus and purpose. He notes that the event seems to have shifted away from its intended meaning of supporting the local community and the financially struggling Jericho Allstars Football Club. Instead, social media showboaters take center stage, flaunting their experiences while lacking a visible impact on the community.
Ottomax calls for a recommitment to the original spirit of Camp Toyoyo and urges the US-based group to consider engaging in football clinics and developmental activities in Jericho. He highlights the efforts of Komborrah and Farova Development Initiative as positive examples of consistent support for the local community.
In closing, Ottomax emphasizes the importance of giving back and nurturing the younger generation, just as he and others were supported by mentors like Bob Oyugi and Muruiri. He urges his fellow football veterans to remember their roots and preserve their tradition and culture, reminding them that the community’s success is built on collective support.
In this heartfelt social media post, Matthews Ottomax reminds us of the power of community, mentorship, and the need to stay true to one’s origins while supporting future generations. The Camp Toyoyo Maandamano serves as a rallying call to rediscover the essence of this football legacy and ensure its continued positive impact on the community.