Ababu Namwamba's advice to Kibet after sealing LaLiga move
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Reading Time: 3min | Tue. 22.07.25. | 10:12
The exciting youngster signed a four-year contract with the club on Wednesday, 16 July, joining their youth team Celta Fortuna on a free transfer
“Continue being grounded, respectful, and hardworking. Talent will take you far, but only character will keep you there.”
That was the powerful message from former Sports Cabinet Secretary (CS) Ababu Namwamba to rising football star Aldrine Kibet after the youngster secured a dream move to Spanish La Liga side Celta Vigo.
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The exciting youngster signed a four-year contract with the club on Wednesday, 16 July, joining their youth team Celta Fortuna on a free transfer.
The deal, which runs until 2029, marks a major milestone for the former St Anthony’s Boys Kitale midfielder, whose journey from school football to the international level has captured the imagination of many Kenyans.
Speaking to Kibet via a video call from Spain, where the player is currently settling in with his parents, Namwamba expressed immense pride in his growth and accomplishments.
He fondly recalled Kibet’s exploits with the Kenya U20 team (Rising Stars), where he played a pivotal role in helping the team qualify for their first-ever U20 Africa Cup of Nations, scoring five goals in the qualifiers.
Kibet came to the limelight during the 2023 KSSSA National Term Two games, where he was crowned Most Valuable Player. He later scooped the Sports Personality of the Month award in August 2024.
“I feel like hugging you. I’m so proud of you,” Namwamba said with a smile.
Kibet, visibly emotional, admitted the move had not fully sunk in. “It’s unreal. It’s yet to register,” he said.
Namwamba also took time to speak to Kibet’s parents, commending them for supporting their son’s ambitions. Kibet’s father remarked that Kenyans miss Namwamba in the sports space.
“I have been cheering Aldrine all the way. It’s a big step for Aldrine and for all of us. It’s phenomenal,” Namwamba responded.
Namwamba, now serving as Kenya’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), pledged continued support for Kibet’s journey.
“You are now Kenya’s ambassador. Your story gives hope to so many young Kenyans. Your success proves it’s possible,” he said.
He even promised to be present at Kibet’s debut game for Celta Fortuna.
“First game you play, I will be in the stadium. I’m now a Celta Vigo fan,” he declared.
Looking ahead to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Kenya is set to co-host, Namwamba expressed confidence that Kibet would feature for the senior Harambee Stars squad.
“I can’t wait to see you in the senior jersey. We’re not just hosting AFCON, we’re going to compete, and you’re among the players who will help us do that,” he offered.
Kibet, in turn, thanked Namwamba for playing a foundational role in his journey.
“I just want to say thank you. You set a very good platform for me to be here. You were Godsent,” he said.
