By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 21 December 2025 - Kisumu has long been celebrated as a cradle of football talent in Kenya, and few names shine brighter than Peter Dawo.
The Harambee Stars legend, who rose from the local pitches of Moi Stadium, remains etched in the hearts of football fans for his historic feat of helping Kenya lift the continental cup, putting the nation on the African football map.
Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o recently paid glowing tribute to Dawo as he launched the multi-million-shilling upgrade of Moi Stadium.
The modernisation, which will expand the stadium to a 10,000-seater facility compliant with CAF and FIFA standards is set to transform Kisumu into a hub for top-tier football matches.
But for Nyong’o, the project represents far more than infrastructure—it is a celebration of Kisumu’s rich football heritage and a bridge between the past and the future.
“Peter Dawo’s journey from the dusty pitches of Kisumu to lifting the continental trophy is a story every young footballer here should know,” Prof Nyong’o said.
“He showed that with talent, dedication, and courage, Kisumu can produce players who shine not just nationally, but across Africa.”
Dawo’s triumph came during the formative years of Kenyan football on the continental stage.
At a time when the country was still finding its feet in African competitions, Dawo’s brilliance on the field brought pride to an entire nation.
His skill, composure, and knack for scoring crucial goals became a hallmark of Harambee Stars’ rise, inspiring a generation of players who dreamed of replicating his achievements.
The newly upgraded Moi Stadium where Dawo once showcased his talents, is now poised to nurture the next generation of Kenyan football stars.
With modern facilities, enhanced seating, and compliance with international standards, the stadium is more than a venue—it is a symbol of opportunity.
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Young players stepping onto its pitch will now follow in the footsteps of Dawo, aiming to write their own chapters in Kenya’s football history.
Governor Nyong’o emphasised that while the stadium is modernizing, it also preserves Kisumu’s sporting legacy.
“This project connects our past to our future,” he said.
“The same ground that witnessed Dawo’s rise will now host new heroes, continuing Kisumu’s proud tradition in Kenyan and African football."
Dawo’s story resonates beyond Kisumu. It is a reminder of the heights Kenyan football can reach when talent meets opportunity.
His achievements elevated not just his hometown but the entire nation, signaling to Africa that Kenya could compete with the continent’s footballing powerhouses.
As construction progresses, the multi-million-shilling Moi Stadium project is expected to draw fans, players, and scouts from across the region.
For Kisumu, this is a chance to honor its legends, provide state-of-the-art facilities for young athletes, and showcase its ongoing commitment to football development.
In appreciating Dawo, Prof Nyong’o highlighted the essence of football in Kisumu: passion, perseverance, and pride.
“Every corner of this stadium tells a story,” he said. “From Peter Dawo’s historic goals to the young players chasing their dreams today, Kisumu continues to be at the heart of Kenya’s football story.”
Peter Dawo’s legacy is now inseparably linked to Moi Stadium’s new chapter. As the stadium rises to modern standards, Kisumu is not just building infrastructure; it is preserving history, inspiring future stars, and ensuring that the magic of Kenyan football continues to light up Africa’s pitch.
