Why was Emmanuel Adebayor in Nairobi?

Searches about Emmanuel Adebayor in Nairobi flooded the internet ahead of the Arsenal clash against Manchester United on March 9. The Togolese football star returned to Kenya two years after his visit in 2023. His presence was a big tale in the city. He visited just as his former club, Arsenal played against Manchester United at Old Trafford. A section of his Kenyan fans felt honoured that the retired Arsenal striker was in Nairobi ahead of this game.

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Why was Emmanuel Adebayor in Nairobi?

Adebayor, 41, flew to Nairobi for a business engagement with a local wagering firm. The firm invited him for the Manchester United vs Arsenal watch party at the Bar Next Door along the Northern bypass. This plush joint off Kiambu Road is stylish and meets expectations of hosting VIPS – hence a choice to host Emmanuel Adebayor in Nairobi.

The Togolese couldn’t contain his excitement following his interaction with fans in the city. He described the energy by Kenyans as ‘massive’ adding that they accorded him support beyond expectation.

“Nairobi, you did not disappoint! Big shoutout to all my Kenyan fans who pulled up for the watch party—your energy was next level! The love and support were unreal. Until next time!” he posted on his Instagram page.

Former Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor in Kenya. He later hosted a Manchester United vs Arsenal watch party at the Bar Next Door off Kiambu Road. Photo/22Xbet

Kenyans who interacted with him opined that they loved his calm demeanour.

‘You wouldn’t know he is a celebrity because he is social and humble. Only those of us who love football understand how big of a celebrity he is,” Karl Muchemi told See Africa Today.

Pius Maangi frequents the Northern Bypass Club during weekends. However, with Adebayor’s visit; it’s his most memorable time as a reveller.

“I am a big supporter of African footballers. They do so much more than just chasing the ball and scoring,” he narrated. “We have all heard nasty things about ill-treatment Africans get in Europe but our footballers still shine. That’s why I want to take a selfie with Adebayor here as a reminder that we are both great men.”

Where Did Adebayor Visit in Nairobi?

Nairobi National Park welcomed Emmanuel Adebayor in Nairobi in style on Saturday morning. He shared a video boarding a safari cruiser. The park’s beauty and wildlife sightings, including the Big Five, fascinated him.

“Witnessing the raw beauty of Kenya’s wilderness is an experience like no other! From majestic lions to breathtaking landscapes, nature reminds us how small we are in its grand design. I wish for everyone to experience this magic at least once in their lifetime!” Adebayor stated.

Emmanuel Adebayor in Kenya. Photo/Capital News

Nairobi National Park is an iconic tourist destination in Africa measuring 117 square kilometres (45 square miles). This park in the outskirts of the city is a wildlife spectacle with lions, buffalos, leopards, rhinos, giraffes, hyenas, crocodiles and snakes among others. Additionally, there are over 400 bird species at the park. You can spot the rare Jackson’s Widowbird at the park.

Other celebrities who have visited the park before welcoming Emmanuel Adebayor in Nairobi include the following:

Ashanti
Madonna
Naomi Campbell
Mark Zuckerberg
Jack Ma

Has Adebayor Visited Kenya Before?

Emmanuel Adebayor in Nairobi. Photo/22XBet

Adebayor visited Kenya in 2023 for football and entertainment engagements. He had a moment with Kenyan Premier League club Gor Mahia where he engaged the team and had a practising session with them. He later went to The Milan, a high-end club in Westlands, Nairobi for a night out. The Milan is owned by Ronald Karauri, a Kenyan politician (Kasarani MP) and a shareholder of SportPesa. It’s a joint for the polished and accompanied in the country. With Emmanuel Adebayor in Nairobi for a second time; the ex-Manchester City knew what to expect at his watch party.

When Did Adebayor Retire?

The 41-year-old retired from his football career in March 2023. He was 39 years old. Adebayor spent 10 years playing football in England in the following clubs:

Arsenal (2006 – 2009)
Manchester City (2009 – 2012)
Tottenham (2012 – 2015)
Crystal Palace (2016)

He left the English Premier League for the Turkish league in 2017. In interactions surrounding Emmanuel Adebayor in Nairobi; he narrated that football taught him the value of diversity. Coming from Africa and playing in England, Turkey and Paraguay made him earn a sense of cultural appreciation. Adebayor played for the following clubs after leaving England.