Kakamega Homeboyz Football Club has confirmed the tragic passing of defender Silas Abungana, who succumbed to severe head injuries on the night of February 4, 2026, while receiving treatment at Kakamega County General Hospital.
The club issued a heartfelt statement on February 5, 2026, expressing profound grief over the untimely death of the 24-year-old player. Silas had been admitted to hospital after being attacked on the evening of February 3, and despite the best efforts of medical staff, he passed away minutes before midnight on February 4.
The club statement read: “Kakamega Homeboyz Football Club is deeply devastated by the untimely demise of Silas Abungana. The club can confirm that Silas passed away a few minutes before midnight on Wednesday, 4 February while receiving treatment at Kakamega County General Hospital, this after succumbing to head injuries sustained during an attack on Tuesday, 3 February night. During this incredibly difficult time, we respectfully request privacy for Silas’ family, teammates, friends, and club officials as we come to terms with this unimaginable loss. The club will issue further communication in due course.”
Silas Abungana, a promising defender who joined Homeboyz from Shabana FC ahead of the 2024/25 Football Kenya Federation Premier League season, was known for his composure on the ball and strong defensive reading. He had featured regularly in the league, including playing the full 90 minutes in the club’s most recent match against Mara Sugar FC on Saturday, February 1, 2026, before the attack occurred two days later.
Club officials have not released details of the circumstances surrounding the assault, stating that investigations are ongoing with police authorities. Sources close to the club indicated that Silas was attacked while returning home after training, sustaining serious head trauma that required immediate hospitalisation.
Head coach Patrick Odhiambo described Silas as a dedicated and humble professional. “Silas was more than a player; he was a brother to everyone in the dressing room,” Odhiambo said. “He gave his all every time he stepped on the pitch. The boys are shattered. We are in disbelief, but we will honour him by continuing to fight in the league and dedicating our remaining matches to his memory.”
The Football Kenya Federation expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with the club. “The FKF fraternity mourns with Kakamega Homeboyz FC following the untimely passing of Silas Abungana,” the federation said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with his family, friends and teammates at this painful moment. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
Shabana FC, where Abungana began his senior career, also paid tribute. “We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of our former defender Silas Abungana,” the club posted. “He was a humble, hardworking professional who always gave his best. Rest in peace, brother.”
The incident has renewed calls for improved player safety and welfare in Kenyan football. The Kenya Premier League chairman Ranjit Singh said the league would review security protocols for players, especially during travel to and from matches. “This is a sad reminder of the need for better protection for our players,” Singh said. “We will work with the FKF medical committee to strengthen on-site medical cover and ensure ambulances are present at every match.”
Homeboyz have announced that their next league match will be preceded by a minute’s silence, and the club will retire Abungana’s number 25 jersey for the remainder of the season. Teammates have been receiving counselling from club officials and the FKF welfare team.
A memorial service is expected to be held in Kakamega later this week before the body is transported to his rural home for burial. The club has called for privacy during this period, requesting that fans and well-wishers respect the family’s wishes.
The football community has flooded social media with tributes. Former Harambee Stars captain Musa Mohammed posted: “Rest in peace Silas. You were a warrior on and off the pitch. Gone too soon.”
As Homeboyz prepare to honour their fallen teammate, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need for better welfare and security safeguards in Kenyan football.
