'This Place Shaped My Childhood' - Heartbroken Harambee Stars Midfielder Breaks Silence on Makongeni Demolitions

The Gor Mahia midfielder has reflected on Makongeni's impact on his life while urging compassion and careful planning as the community faces major upheaval.

Harambee Stars midfielder Alpha Onyango has shared his frustration as he sent a message of hope to the victims of the Makongeni demolitions.

The demolition of houses in Makongeni is a major flashpoint in the Kenyan government's ambitious Affordable Housing Project.

For thousands of residents, the exercise represents a sudden, painful displacement, while for the government, it is a necessary step toward urban renewal and addressing the country's housing deficit.

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According to reports, Makongeni, an old estate on 139 hectares, has been home to its occupants for decades, including Alpha Onyango, who grew up there.

The government earmarked the dilapidated structures for demolition to pave the way for modern, high-density housing blocks, complete with social amenities.

Alpha Onyango: Makongeni Will Always Be Part of Who We Are

In a post on his Facebook page, the Gor Mahia midfielder conveyed deep sympathy for everyone affected in Makongeni during the transition.

He explained that the neighbourhood played a significant role in shaping his childhood, his aspirations, and the foundation of his football journey.

Alpha Onyango also mentioned that he is praying for every family as they navigate the changes and hopes they will find strength and guidance as they embrace new beginnings.

“My heart goes out to everyone affected in Makongeni during this transition. This place shaped my childhood, my dreams, and my football journey. I pray that God guides and blesses every family as they start new chapters. Makongeni will always be part of who we are,” he said.

Alpha Onyango, Brian Bwire Plead with Government to Delay Makongeni Demolitions

Meanwhile, the Gor Mahia midfielder had earlier urged the government to reconsider its approach to the upcoming affordable housing project planned for the Makongeni grounds, a space he says holds deep significance for local athletes and young people.

Speaking from the field, he confirmed that residents had been informed about the project and made it clear that they were not opposed to it.

He acknowledged that the development would benefit the community and offer better living conditions for many families. However, he appealed for the project to be rolled out gradually.

“We have heard that an affordable housing project is planned for this area, and we welcome it because it will improve our neighbourhood,” he said.

“We only request that the development be done in phases. This field is big enough, and phased construction would allow the children who train here to continue growing while the project takes shape.”

On his part, Brian Bwire echoed the same plea. Bwire emphasised that they fully support the affordable housing initiative but believe that phased construction is crucial to avoid disrupting the nurturing of young talent that takes place at the grounds every day.

“We support the project, but we ask that it be done in stages so the young players here are not displaced,” Bwire said. “The talent being developed in this field is important for the country. It should not be lost.”

Both players had expressed hope that the government could find a balance, delivering much-needed housing while preserving a field that has shaped generations of young footballers, but that is not an option at the moment.