A Kenyan woman, Epakan Ekaale, recently gave birth to triplets and decided to pay a unique tribute to her favorite football club by naming her babies after three Arsenal players.
The triplets are now named Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, and Gabriel Magalhaes.
Ekaale, a 30-year-old mother, said the naming was done in honour of the local Arsenal supporters in Turkana, Kenya, who have been very supportive of her.
“I gave birth to two girls and a boy. The boy is called Gabriel Jesus, while the girls are Martinelli and Magalhaes,” Ekaale told local media.
The triplets, she said, represent a heartfelt tribute to the Arsenal players who have left a mark on the English Premier League club.
As news of the unique naming choice spread, fans of the Arsenal team in Turkana gathered to celebrate the arrival of the triplets, bringing gifts such as powder milk and washing detergent to support Ekaale and her babies.
Explaining her decision to name the triplets after the three Gabriels from Arsenal, Ekaale said, “Since I am a devoted Arsenal fan, I chose to name my children the three Gabriels of Arsenal.”
Ekaale said she was initially worried when she learned she would give birth to triplets.
She was afraid her small charcoal business would not sustain the upbringing of the children, given that her husband is a livestock herder.
Despite the initial concerns, she found support from local Arsenal fans.
“I was surprised when I was told that I would give birth to more than one baby, but I thank God I delivered safely with the help of health workers,” Ekaale said.
James Lokwale, the chairperson of Arsenal supporters in Turkana, reported that both the mother and the triplets are doing well.
He expressed hopes that the trio will grow up to become passionate Arsenal fans, just like their mother.
The unique naming choice has garnered attention and appreciation for its creative and heartfelt connection to the world of football.
Ekaale’s story reflects the global reach and influence of football clubs, turning a local celebration of new life into an international symbol of fandom.
