Retired Sergeant Major of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Elijah Koranga has died, leaving behind a legacy of military valor and distinguished service.
The veteran passed away on the evening of Wednesday, February 5, at Blooms Hospital in Nakuru County after a short illness.
Outside his military career, Koranga was renowned for his football prowess, having played for various teams in the country during his prime, including Harambee Stars.
Before his passing, Koranga retired from the Kenya Defence Forces in October 2024, after nearly 40 years of dedicated service.
The news of his death came as a shock to many, especially since his retirement ceremony had been just months ago, and he appeared to be in good health.
Career
Elijah Koranga served four decades in the KDF, leaving an indelible mark through his leadership, mentorship, and unwavering commitment.
Holding the Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) rank, he was a technical expert who provided guidance and skills to other senior commanders. He was also tasked with overseeing the welfare, discipline, and training of lower-ranked soldiers.
Throughout his career, he served in several key roles, including positions with the 3rd Battalion Kenya Rifles (3KR), 2 Brigade, and the Kenya Military Academy.
He was appointed Defence Forces Sergeant Major (DFSM) in 2019, becoming the most distinguished point in his career as he served as a crucial advisor to the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) on matters affecting service members.
His tenure as DFSM was characterized by his ability to lead, mentor, and motivate his colleagues, providing sound strategic guidance and support to foster a cohesive and discipline-driven environment within KDF.
Sporting career
Photo: Courtesy
Kodanga was a formidable force in the football sector within the country. In the late 1980s, he began playing as a midfielder for Kenya’s national football team, Harambee Stars.
He played well into the early 1990s, combining his skill and teamwork to propel the team to international stadiums. His era was marked by outstanding performance, cementing his place among the country’s football legends.
He also played for the military team, Scarlet Football Club, which later became Ulinzi Stars, and throughout the 1990s, he was a key player, significantly contributing to their successes in the Kenyan Premier Leagu
In 1992, he also played for Transcom Nakuru, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to football.
Coming from a soccer family, he mentored his brother Frazier Ochieng, who was an offensive midfielder of Shabana FC and Gor Mahia during the early 2000s.
After his career on the pitch, his vast experience elevated him to become an authoritative voice in sports affairs in the country, offering advice in the management of soccer by key stakeholders. His input was instrumental in the vetting of coaches for Harambee Stars.
Family
Koranga is survived by his wife, Everlyn Koranga, and three children: Ariel Okall, Emmanuel Koranga, and Felmas Adhiambo, all of whom followed in his sporting footsteps and are professional basketball players.
