Ryan Ogam, Abud Omar, Byrne Omondi and Alpha Onyango Among 180 Kenyans Declared National Heroes

Seven outstanding figures in Kenyan football were today declared national heroes during the Mashujaa Day Celebrations held at the newly built Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui. The seven were among 180 Kenyans recognized by President William Ruto for their exemplary service and contribution to the nation.

Among those honoured was Mildred Cheche, the head coach of the Kenya U17 women’s national team (Junior Starlets). Mildred received the national honour for her exceptional contribution to football development and her historic achievements with the Junior Starlets. She made history by guiding the team to the 2024 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup, marking the first time any Kenyan team has qualified for a FIFA World Cup event. Under her leadership, the Junior Starlets went on to secure Kenya’s first-ever victory at a FIFA World Cup tournament — a 2-1 win over Mexico, one of the world’s renowned football nations.

In addition to her role with the Junior Starlets, Mildred also serves as the assistant coach of the Kenya U20 women’s team (Rising Starlets), where she continues to nurture and develop young female football talent across the country.

Another notable figure recognized was Nicholas Chumba Musonye, honoured for his immense contribution to soccer development in East and Central Africa. As the long-serving Secretary General of the Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA), Musonye played a pivotal role in organizing regional tournaments that showcased and elevated Kenyan and African football talent on the global stage. His visionary leadership not only strengthened regional football integration but also created platforms for players, coaches, and referees to gain international exposure. More recently, Musonye has been instrumental in guiding and steering Kenya’s preparations to host the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), underscoring his continued commitment to the growth of the game.

Four Harambee Stars representatives were also honoured for their contributions to the senior national team’s success at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), where Kenya reached the quarterfinals of a continental competition for the first time in history.

Striker Ryan Wesley Ogam Rabok, who plies his trade with Austrian club Wolfsberger AC, was recognized for his crucial goalscoring exploits, including two decisive strikes that propelled Kenya to the CHAN quarterfinals. Although he was unable to attend the ceremony due to club duties in Austria, his achievement was celebrated in absentia.

Captain Abud Omar Khamis of Kenya Police FC received recognition for his leadership and exemplary service to the national team. His steady guidance was instrumental in Harambee Stars’ unprecedented run in the CHAN tournament.

Goalkeeper Byrne Omondi of Gor Mahia was also among those feted for his heroics between the posts. His outstanding performances, including a Man of the Match display, played a key role in Kenya’s historic qualification to the CHAN quarterfinals.

Midfielder Alpha Onyango, also of Gor Mahia, was honoured for his consistent brilliance during the CHAN campaign. He earned two Man of the Match awards and was recently linked with a move to Tunisia’s Étoile Sportive du Sahel. Although the transfer did not materialize, the national recognition is a rewarding moment for the talented midfielder.

Also recognized was Nicodemus Kimanthi Musau, the Harambee Stars Team Manager and Data Analyst. Kimanthi was honoured for driving the integration of technology and sports science within the team — innovations that contributed significantly to Kenya’s successful run at the CHAN tournament.

Completing the list was Shadrack Andenga Odinga, a respected sports journalist and former footballer. Shadrack was celebrated for his outstanding contribution to sports through the media. His work as a journalist, commentator, and analyst has been pivotal in profiling emerging talent and shaping narratives around Kenyan football.

Through his coverage of events such as the Talanta Hela Championships and Safaricom Chapa Dimba, Shadrack helped young Kenyan players gain national and international visibility — with several being recruited into Harambee Stars and top-flight clubs. His investigative sports documentaries have also exposed corruption and malpractice within sports, sparking reforms that have improved athlete welfare, accountability, and safety in Kenyan sports.

Today’s recognition of these seven individuals reflects Kenya’s growing appreciation of football’s role in shaping national pride, youth empowerment, and social transformation.