Martin Munene: The Pivotal Role of Eric Omondi in Kenyan Haaland Lookalike Story

In the world of football, Erling Haaland is a household name. In Kenya, however, another "Haaland" is making his own mark.

Martin Munene, a digital creator who bears a striking resemblance to the Manchester City striker, has quickly become a viral sensation.

In an exclusive phone call interview with Mpasho journalist Moses Sagwe, Munene opened up about his journey from a spa employee to a public figure.

The Influence of Eric Omondi

Munene’s transition into a professional content creator was significantly influenced by some of Kenya’s biggest names in entertainment. He recalled a pivotal meeting with comedian Eric Omondi, who was instantly impressed by the resemblance.

Omondi’s manager, Makaveli, took a direct interest in Munene’s potential.

"He told his manager called Makaveli to take my phone number," Munene explained.

It was Makaveli who provided the strategic advice that gave Munene his digital identity. He suggested the brand name "Kenyan Haaland."

"We also talked with his manager who advised me to change my brand name to ‘Kenyan Haaland’."

Supporting the "Bro" at Manchester City

Munene’s connection to Manchester City became imminent when he realized he resembles the club’s forward. He initially started wearing the club's colours simply because he liked the shade of blue.

However, after embracing his new brand, his loyalty to the team deepened. "That’s how I also decided to support my ‘bro’ Haaland, but previously I was a Manchester United fan," he told Mpasho.

A Goal of One Million

The "Kenyan Haaland" has clear objectives for his digital platforms. He is currently focused on growing his community on TikTok, where he tracks his progress closely.

• Current TikTok Followers: 57k+

ALSO READ: 5 Things to Know About Martin Munene, Kenya's Erling Haaland Lookalike

• Target for 2026: 1,000,000

Munene admitted that reaching the one-million-follower milestone would be a major personal achievement that would bring him great happiness.

Beyond the Mask: The Spa Dream

While he enjoys the fame of being a lookalike, Munene has grounded professional aspirations. He is currently an employee in a spa, but he does not plan to work for others forever.

He dreams of becoming an entrepreneur and opening his own establishment. His goal is to provide jobs for other young people.

"The reality is, any youths out here are jobless," he noted. He also expressed a desire to "take the beauty industry a notch higher" through his own shop.

"I really wish to open my own spa... I want to start my own shop and employ fellow youths."

Addressing the Online Trolls

Not all the attention Munene receives is positive. He often faces comments from critics who claim he is "forcing issues" by mimicking the Norwegian star. Munene noted a strange contrast between his real-life interactions and his online presence.

He explained that while people on the street are usually happy to meet him, his comment sections are often filled with hate. Despite the negativity, he remains focused on his ultimate goal of meeting Erling Haaland in person.

"I know they are trying to discourage me but one day they will see me with Haaland," he said. "I know that, and I believe in God."