Dennis Oliech Named CHAN 2024 Pamoja Ambassador Ahead of Kenya’s Debut

Legendary former Harambee Stars striker Dennis Oliech has been officially unveiled as the Pamoja Brand Ambassador for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), which kicks off this Saturday across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

The announcement was made during a special breakfast event at the Kasarani Stadium, graced by former Kenyan internationals and senior Ministry of Sports officials, including Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya.

CS Mvurya praised the appointment, describing it as a powerful recognition of Oliech’s contribution to Kenya’s football history.

“As an ambassador, we believe Oliech will inspire unity and mobilise national support behind Harambee Stars during the tournament,” Mvurya stated.

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Oliech’s ambassadorship is intended to bolster fan engagement and spark national pride as Kenya co-hosts its first-ever CHAN tournament.

With his iconic status and deep roots in Kenyan football, he is expected to reignite enthusiasm among fans and build momentum for the national team.

A household name in Kenyan football since the early 2000s, Oliech launched his professional career at Mathare United before securing a move to Qatar’s Al-Arabi. He later played in France’s Ligue 1 for Nantes and Auxerre, scoring 25 goals in 165 appearances, and also featured for AC Ajaccio. His career further took him to the UAE before returning to the local league with Gor Mahia in 2019.

On the international front, Oliech captained Harambee Stars, netting 34 goals in 76 appearances—making him Kenya’s all-time top scorer. Among his standout achievements was the critical goal against Cape Verde in 2003, which secured Kenya a place in the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations.

As CHAN 2024 approaches, Oliech’s appointment is seen as a timely and strategic move to unite the country behind Harambee Stars and elevate the profile of the tournament.

The 19-nation tournament will open with hosts Tanzania taking on Burkina Faso at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

Kenya’s Harambee Stars, under new head coach Benni McCarthy of South Africa, will make their debut on Sunday with a tough opening match against two-time champions DR Congo at Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi.