Kenyan football fraternity in mourning as Bandari Youth star Daudi Zakaria dies at 20
Daudi scored 23 goals in the FKF Coast Region League last season, earning the top scorer title and playing a crucial role in securing the team’s historic promotion to FKF Division Two.
Kenya’s football community is mourning the untimely death of Bandari Youth FC striker Daudi Zakaria, who has died at the age of 20 after battling a prolonged illness.
According to multiple media reports, the promising forward succumbed to dengue fever while receiving treatment, having been out of action for several months.
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Dengue fever—often referred to as break-bone fever—is a viral illness spread by mosquitoes, especially in tropical and subtropical regions.
While many infected individuals remain asymptomatic, others experience symptoms such as high fever, severe headaches, muscle and joint pain, nausea, and skin rashes. Most cases resolve within one to two weeks, but severe infections can be life-threatening and may require hospitalisation.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) notes that there is no specific cure for dengue. Instead, treatment focuses on relieving symptoms using pain medication. WHO also emphasises the importance of preventing mosquito bites during the day as the most effective way to reduce the risk of infection.
In a heartfelt tribute posted on Facebook on Monday, Bandari FC remembered Daudi as “a fearless warrior on the pitch and a bright, kind-hearted soul off it.”
Passion for the game
“Daudi was more than just a football player. He was a fighter, a friend, a mentor, and a source of joy to everyone who knew him. His passion for the game was unmatched, and his dedication to the team inspired all those around him. On the field, he wore the club badge with pride. Off the field, he lived with humility and kindness,” the statement, originally issued in Swahili, roughly translates.
The club also extended its condolences to Daudi’s family and friends, highlighting his enduring legacy:
“As we try to come to terms with this painful loss, our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all who were blessed to share life's journey with him. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on forever in our hearts and in every game we play,” the club said.
Daudi, who hailed from Garissa, will be remembered for his exceptional contribution to Bandari Youth’s recent success.
He scored 23 goals in the FKF Coast Region League last season, earning the top scorer title and playing a crucial role in securing the team’s historic promotion to FKF Division Two.
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