Harambee Stars players Wesley Ogam, Omar Aboud, Bryne Omondi, and Alpha Onyango are among 31 Kenyan athletes recommended by the National Heroes Council for recognition as national heroes.
The nominations recognise their outstanding contributions during the 2024 CHAN (African Nations Championship), where they played pivotal roles in propelling the national team to historic performance milestones.
Ogam is being honored for his goal-scoring prowess, having netted two crucial goals during the tournament.
His efforts not only helped Kenya advance but also earned him the prestigious title of top scorer for Harambee Stars at CHAN 2024, a feat that resonated with fans across the country.
Former team captain Aboud has also been nominated for his exemplary leadership on the pitch. He captained the Harambee Stars throughout the 2024 CHAN campaign and was instrumental in guiding the national side to the quarter-final stage, their best finish in recent history.
Goalkeeper Omondi has also been nominated for his outstanding goalkeeping, which earned him a Man of the Match award. His commanding presence in the box and multiple match-saving performances were vital in maintaining Kenya’s defensive strength throughout the tournament.
Midfielder Onyango has been honored for his dynamic performances that controlled the pace of Kenya’s midfield. He earned two Man of the Match awards, reflecting his game-changing influence and consistent excellence during critical matches.
The nominations come as part of a wider call for public consultation by the National Heroes Council, a body established under the Kenya Heroes Act No. 5 of 2014.
The Council is tasked with identifying and recognizing individuals who have made remarkable contributions to the country across various sectors, including sports.
According to the notice released on September 16, 2025, the Council has published the names of proposed honorees on its official website www.heroes.go.ke and is inviting members of the public to submit any objections or representations regarding the nominations.
"Objections and representations (through sworn affidavits) should be submitted within 14 days of publication of this notice that is by September 30, 2025 through;[email protected], [email protected], [email protected], hand delivered to office of the Chief Executive Officer, National Heroes Council, Mezzanine Floor, Embankment Plaza, Upper Hill or sent via post to The Chief Executive Officer, National Heroes Council P.O Box 30001-00100, Nairobi," the notice read in part.
According to Jimmy Angwenyi, the Chairperson of the National Heroes Council, the public’s input is vital to ensuring the integrity of the process, as the recognition of national heroes reflects the values and aspirations of the Kenyan people.
This public consultation provides Kenyans with an opportunity to celebrate and validate the accomplishments of sportsmen and women who have not only made headlines but also inspired a generation through their talent, discipline, and patriotism.
