Kei Kamara: From Civil War Survivor to Columbus Crew’s Star Striker
Few footballers embody resilience and perseverance as much as Kei Kamara. On Wednesday, the Sierra Leonean striker officially extended his contract with Columbus Crew until 2018, a reward for his remarkable 2015 season where he scored 26 goals across the regular season and playoffs, driving his team all the way to the MLS Cup final. For a player who once faced rejection, uncertainty, and unimaginable hardship, this extension is the culmination of a truly extraordinary journey.
Born in Kenema, Sierra Leone, Kamara grew up during the brutal civil war that ravaged the country. Like many children, he faced the terrifying prospect of being forced into the life of a child soldier. Instead, he and his family managed to flee the conflict, first enduring the hardships of refugee camps before finding safety in the United States. It was in America that Kamara began to rebuild his life, and where football soon became both his escape and his future.
At 21, he entered Major League Soccer, but his first years were far from easy. His raw talent was obvious, but Kamara’s early career was plagued by inconsistency and missed opportunities. Fans often criticized him for his clumsiness in front of goal, and the league’s ruthless trading system meant he struggled to find stability. He moved from San Jose to Houston and later to Kansas City, each time searching for the right environment to flourish.
It was finally with Sporting Kansas City that Kamara began to establish himself as a reliable forward. His blend of athleticism, work rate, and aerial power made him a difficult player to contain. His progress soon caught the attention of clubs in Europe, and in January 2013 he achieved what many African footballers dream of: a move to the English Premier League.
Kamara joined Norwich City on loan, and while he only played half a season, he impressed with his commitment and energy. He quickly became a fan favorite for his enthusiasm and work ethic, even if his stay was short-lived. After Norwich opted not to retain him permanently, he signed with Middlesbrough in the Championship. But once again, stability eluded him. Despite scoring four goals, his time in England was brief, ending after just one season. A potential move to Wolverhampton Wanderers collapsed when he was denied a work permit, forcing him to return to the United States.
Back in MLS, Kamara rejoined Columbus Crew, the very club where his professional career began. This time, everything clicked. With confidence, maturity, and a clear sense of purpose, he delivered the most prolific season of his career. His 22 goals in the regular season tied him with Toronto’s Sebastian Giovinco as the league’s top scorer, and his decisive performances in the playoffs — including against Montreal, led by his idol Didier Drogba — cemented his place among the league’s elite forwards.
Today, Kei Kamara is more than just a striker; he is a symbol of perseverance and hope. From escaping war as a child to becoming one of MLS’s most feared attackers, his story is one of survival, resilience, and triumph. With his contract extension secured, Columbus Crew fans can look forward to more goals, more passion, and more inspiration from a player who has overcome the odds at every stage of his life.
