Former Harambee Stars' captain Dennis Oliech is optimistic over Kenya’s prospects in the upcoming 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Oliech urged the national team to aim for a historic run as he assumed his new role as Pamoja CHAN 2024 Kenya Ambassador.
Oliech told Harambee Stars to seize the rare opportunity and perform on home soil. He rallied the squad to rise to the occasion and fight for a place in the final.
“This is our moment and we must make it count,” he added. “If we don't reach the final now, we may never get another chance like this. Let’s push, let’s believe, and let’s deliver for the fans.”
The former forward also said, “I hope Kenya will get there (final). I deserve it because of my track record. We never know when we will host again. I am optimistic that if the players put their best foot forward, we will make it to the finals.”
The former Stars' captain netted 34 goals in 76 appearances, cementing his status as Kenya’s all-time top scorer.
Oliech was speaking on Thursday morning at Stadion Hotel, Kasarani, during a breakfast meeting, where Sports Cabinet Secretary, Salim Mvurya and PS Elijah Mwangi hosted 20 Kenyan football legends.
The event marked the official unveiling of Oliech as the face of CHAN 2024 in Kenya, a role that will see him mobilise national support, promote continental unity and amplify local fan engagement.
“I'm so happy to be named the CHAN 2024 ambassador. It's a proud yet humbling moment as I started playing at the age of 17 and went on to become the leading scorer with 34 goals,” Oliech said.
CS Mvurya said the selection of Oliech was based not only on his past exploits but also on his dedication to contributing to football development. “We are unveiling Oliech as the football legend not just for what he did on the pitch, but for his commitment to serve. We call on him to play his part,” Mvurya said.
He added: “We want football here to be everything just as it was in the past. Legends, you have an opportunity to mentor the young generation. We are also reaching out to other football greats across the country.”
He affirmed that the government will invest further in sports infrastructure and reward each national team victory, while promising to uplift local football. “We have invested heavily in infrastructure," the CS said.
"We want the Premier League to be modern and reformed. We will upgrade other stadiums to the standard level,” he added.
Former Gor Mahia defender Bobby Ogolla welcomed the engagement, calling it a fresh start and urged the ministry to involve ex-internationals in key decisions.
“We have always wondered where we are placed as former footballers. It’s usually a struggle after retirement, and mostly medical matters are the main issue. Given an opportunity, we will help raise football standards,” Ogolla said.
Ex-FIFA referee and Kenya Premier League co-founder GMT Otieno called for the restoration of City Stadium, describing it as a vital space for nurturing emerging talent. “Football can be played anywhere, but organised football needs referees. I hope we can upgrade City Stadium as it’s the centre for upcoming talent,” said Otieno.
FKF President Hussein Mohammed pledged reforms, including long-term support for players beyond retirement.
“We will put in place measures to allow footballers to access pensions and careers within the football ecosystem. We will also create opportunities for former players,” said Hussein.
While echoing the same sentiments, PS Mwangi stressed the importance of legends mentoring youth and highlighted CAF’s strict standards for tournament preparations.
“You are role models. We urge you to take your stories to the grassroots. That’s where most of our talent lies,” said Mwangi.
Present during the event were former Harambee Stars players Josephat Murila, George Sunguti, Jobis Odhiambo, Julius Owino, Alfred Chege, Allan Wanga, Omar Shabaan, and James Nandwa.
Others were Sammy Omollo, Nicholas Muyoti, Tom Juma, Lawrence Owino, Oscar Kadenge, Mike Weche, Mike Lukoye, Brian Kaka, Jacob Ananda, and Jeff Oyando.
