By Steve El Sabai

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya has officially unveiled former international football star Dennis Oliech as the Pamoja CHAN 2024 Ambassador for Kenya.

The announcement, made in Nairobi on August 1, 2025, is seen as a key step in mobilizing nationwide support for the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN), which Kenya is hosting.

Oliech, widely regarded as one of Kenya’s most iconic footballers, is expected to spearhead fan engagement campaigns, promote continental unity, and inspire a strong home crowd presence throughout the tournament. “Dennis Oliech is an icon of Kenyan football, and his involvement will rally support not just from fans but also from aspiring young players who see him as a role model,” said CS Mvurya.

Oliech expressed gratitude for the appointment, promising to use his influence and experience to unite fans and amplify excitement ahead of the tournament. “I am honored to take up this role. Football has given me so much, and this is my way of giving back by uniting fans and promoting Kenya on the continental stage,” he said.

The CHAN tournament, organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), is unique because it features players actively competing in their respective domestic leagues. Hosting the championship provides Kenya with a platform to showcase not only its football talent but also its hospitality and organizational capacity to host major continental events.

Oliech, known for his powerful striking abilities and prolific international career, previously captained the national team, Harambee Stars, and remains Kenya’s all-time top goal scorer. His appointment as ambassador reflects both his impact on Kenyan football and his ability to inspire the next generation of players and fans.

The Pamoja campaign will run nationwide to build momentum for the tournament, position Kenya as a welcoming host for visiting teams and fans, and promote messages of unity, sportsmanship, and national pride.

Kenya’s hosting of CHAN 2024 is expected to boost tourism, create economic opportunities, and provide a legacy of improved sporting infrastructure and grassroots football development.