Greg . 1 day ago

Legendary striker Dennis Oliech named Kenya 2024 CHAN ambassador

Former Kenya national team Harambee Stars striker Dennis ‘the Menace’ Oliech will be the 2024 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) brand ambassador for Kenya.

The appointment was confirmed by Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Salim Mvurya, with only one day left before the tournament gets underway in the East African region.

“I am proud to reveal that Dennis Oliech has been assigned as the Official Kenya Ambassador for the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN),” said Mvurya.

“Oliech’s legendary goal-scoring prowess, unwavering passion, and deep commitment to the Harambee Stars have made him a national icon.

Renowned for his ability to electrify stadiums with unforgettable performances, he remains a symbol of Kenyan football excellence.

”Mvurya added: “As CHANKE24 Ambassador, Oliech will rally the nation behind Harambee Stars, motivate confidence among our players, and elevate Kenya’s football profile on the continental stage as his legacy continues to motivate generations.

”Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed, who was present during the ceremony, said the appointment of Oliech was a great honour to those who shaped Kenyan football history.

“As promised in my manifesto to honour those who shaped Kenyan football history, my administration is working to absorb retired legends into the Kenyan football ecosystem, ensuring their undergo benefits youth development & football growth,” clarified Mohammed.

“Congratulations to Dennis Oliech and all the football legends, your presence brings motivation and unity to the team and fans.

Together, let’s construct a legacy that lasts beyond the final whistle.

”Kenyans welcome Oliech’s appointmentA cross-section of Kenyans welcomed the decision by the Kenyan government to settle for Oliech, with many saying the former Harambee Stars captain acquired more recognition in the game.

Alphonce Jnr Ariro wrote: “This is the best step that you have done.

Sometimes leaders overlook those who have contributed positively to this country.

Oliech deserves some recognition in this country's ball game.

Thank you once again.

”Evans Knox Leon Okeno said: “Well acquired, the best and lethal Kenyan forward ever comparable to none in Kenya as a republic, much love and respect aka kajole Dennis Oliech,” while Hon Levy Omuka Okwemba said: “That's exactly how we want it done.

Congratulations to Oliech.

”“He’s under celebrated.

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he’s our legend as far as Harambee stars are concerned.

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he played with dedication and pure talent scoring wonderful goals for the national team.

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you acquire it and more,” concluded Robinson Ngeno.

Oliech started playing football for Dagoretti Santos in his earlier years, then Mathare United.

He turned professional in 2003, playing for Al-Arabi in Qatar until late 2005.

In 2004, he was offered a chance to change his citizenship from Kenyan to Qatari, but he turned it down.

While in Qatar, Oliech played alongside Stefan Effenberg and Gabriel Batistuta during their time in Qatar.

In 2005, Al-Arabi turned down a Sh100m offer from Monaco to sign Oliech.

He played for Nantes in French Ligue 1, where he scored four goals from 34 appearances, before he was signed on loan by AJ Auxerre who were in need of goals after a bad start to their season.

In total, Oliech managed 165 appearances at Auxerre, scoring 25 goals and then transferred to AC Ajaccio, where he managed 50 matches and scored eight goals.

After terminating his contract with AC Ajaccio, he joined Dubai CSC, where he managed 10 appearances and scored four goals.

He later came support to Kenya and signed for record champions Gor Mahia in 2019.

He played 19 matches, scoring nine goals before hanging up his boots.

As a member of the Kenya national team, Oliech became the nation’s second all-time goalscorer, behind William “Chege” Ouma (35 goals), with 34 goals before retiring from international football in 2016.

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