MacDonald Mariga: 3 things that define the Kenyan legend leading the CHAN 2024 draw

Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Vice President MacDonald Mariga will take center stage as he joins Ugandan and Tanzanian football legends to conduct the much-anticipated draw for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).

This prestigious event is set for 8 PM on Wednesday at the iconic Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi, Kenya.

Mariga, a towering figure in Kenyan football history, will lead the proceedings alongside Tanzania’s all-time top scorer Mrisho Ngasa and Uganda’s celebrated football star Hassan Wasswa.

As the first Kenyan to play in the UEFA Champions League final  and now a key football administrator, Mariga’s journey continues to inspire many.

Pulse Sports looks at three key things you should know about this legendary figure.

MacDonald Mariga made history as the first Kenyan footballer to compete in the UEFA Champions League, a feat that remains a source of national pride. He achieved this milestone while playing for Italy’s Inter Milan during the 2009–2010 season.

Under the tutelage of the iconic manager José Mourinho, Mariga became a key squad member that won the prestigious UEFA Champions League, a Serie A title, two Coppa Italia trophies, and the FIFA Club World Cup—all in 2010. 

His success was not confined to Italy; Mariga also had stints in Sweden with Helsingborgs IF, Spain with Real Sociedad, and other European clubs, further raising the profile of Kenyan football.

Mariga was a key player for Kenya’s national team, the Harambee Stars, earning 40 caps and scoring five goals during his international career. 

His presence in midfield was instrumental in numerous matches, where his experience, technical skill and tactical awareness helped steer the team in challenging fixtures.

While Kenya has often struggled to make its mark in international tournaments, Mariga’s contributions on the field have left a lasting impression. 

His achievements inspired a new generation of Kenyan players, many of whom now dream of emulating his remarkable career.

After retiring from professional football, Mariga turned his attention to football administration and in December 2023, he was elected as the Vice President of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF). 

As FKF Vice President, Mariga has committed to nurturing young talent, improving football infrastructure, and positioning Kenya as a strong competitor in African football. 

His role in the 2024 CHAN draw—an event co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania—highlights his growing influence in the sport’s administrative arena.