Tears Flow as Ingwe Icon Patrick ‘Omar Bongo’ Shilasi Is Laid to Rest in Kakamega
KAKAMEGA
There were emotional scenes in Kakamega as hundreds gathered to pay tribute to one of AFC Leopards’ most revered legends — Patrick Milimu Shilasi Likombe, affectionately known in football circles as “Omar Bongo.”
Diminutive in stature but towering in influence, Shilasi’s legacy as a tenacious defender , inspiring leader, and proud Ingwe son was celebrated in word and song at his solemn farewell.
Born on 26th June 1959, Shilasi’s football journey began at Musingu High School, where his natural talent quickly made him a standout performer. After a short spell with MOTCom FC, he joined his childhood club, AFC Leopards, in 1980 — a move that would define both his career and an era of dominance in Kenyan football.
Though small in frame, Shilasi was a giant on the pitch — known for his fierce tackling, relentless energy, and unshakable commitment. He embodied the true spirit of Ingwe football: hard, honest, and fearless.
Off the pitch, Shilasi was an accomplished accountant — sharp, principled, and respected in professional circles. His brilliance across two distinct fields made him a unique figure, especially among the Abaluhya community, where he was not only admired, but deeply cherished.
He earned the nickname “Omar Bongo” due to his physical resemblance to the late Gabonese president, and his name became synonymous with grit and determination on the pitch.
A product of the famed Kakamega High School football program under the legendary Chris Makokha, Shilasi was scouted alongside Pius Masinza at the end of the 1980 season. He was swiftly integrated into AFC Leopards’ first team, where he played alongside some of the greatest names in the club’s history: Mohammed Abbas, Jospahat Murila, Wilberforce Mulamba, Joe Masiga, and Tony Lidonde.
Between 1982 and 1984, Shilasi helped AFC Leopards clinch three successive CECAFA Club Championship titles, three league titles, and two domestic cup trophies (now known as the Mozzart Bet Cup).
His most iconic moment came in 1985, when AFC Leopards reached the semi-finals of the African Cup Winners’ Cup, famously eliminating Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko. Shilasi was also in the squad that wore the iconic blue and white “Rio Tinto” kit during a historic victory over Zimbabwe in Harare in 1982, a match that saw Tony Lidonde score the decisive goal and earn the nickname “Mkombozi.”
Shilasi’s career unfolded alongside fellow stalwarts such as Francis Kadenge, Peter Lichungu, Shadrach Oyando, Demo Okumu, Patrick Shim, Omar Shaban, Francis Luvembe, Mike Amwayi, and Dan Musuku.
Speaking at the requiem mass, AFC Leopards Chairman Dr. Dan Shikanda mourned the loss of a true icon:
“Patrick was a lion — in life, in the locker room, and on the pitch. His influence will remain alive in the hearts of the Ingwe family.”
Former player and chairman aspirant Boniface Ambani hailed Shilasi as a legend in every respect:
“He gave his all for the club. He was fierce on the field and a gentleman off it. His impact will be felt for generations.”
Club Secretary General aspirant Robert Situma used the moment to call for structural change in the way legends are honored:
“It is disheartening how we treat our heroes. Under my leadership, I will establish a proper Hall of Fame — a sanctuary of remembrance and respect for those who built this club.”
Khayota, Chairman of the Ingwe Former Players Association, issued a heartfelt plea:
“We brought honor and pride to this club, but feel abandoned. We urge future leadership to restore dignity and recognition to our former players.”
As Patrick Shilasi was laid to rest, the final whistle on his life may have sounded, but his roar — like that of a true leopard — will echo forever in the history of Kenyan football.
