As Kenya gears up to co-host the 2024 CHAN, the spotlight is on the Harambee Stars' local talent. CHAN features only players active in domestic leagues, making it the perfect stage for showcasing fresh, homegrown stars.
With the tournament set to kick off in August, Kenyan fans are hopeful the team will rise to the challenge, especially before a home crowd. From marksmen to midfield magicians, several players have stood out in the FKF Premier League campaign and are now ready to make their mark on the continent.
The following are five Harambee Stars players to watch, the ones who could write Kenya's CHAN 2024 story:
Aboud Omar
Veteran left-back and captain Aboud Omar anchors the Harambee Stars’ defense with resolute tackling and precise positioning. Boasting over 40 international caps, Omar merges tactical intelligence with calm leadership under pressure.
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Now 32, he brings rich experience from stints in Greece, Belgium, Bulgaria, and Romania, and his recent tenure helped Kenya Police FC clinch the 2024-25 FKF Premier League title.
Omar’s rise to national captain reflects both his field vision and his teammates’ trust in his lead-by-example style. Instead of feeling the strain of a home crowd, he thrives on it, using the energy to fortify the backline, boost morale, and inspire national pride.
Against CHAN Group A giants like DR Congo and Morocco, his disciplined defense, game reading, and vocal presence could be the difference in Kenya's campaign.
As the captain, all eyes will be on him to steer the team with focus, composure, and national pride.
Masoud Juma
Masoud Juma was a late surprise addition to coach Benni McCarthy’s CHAN 2024 squad. Recently back in Kenya and signed to a National Super League club, Juma’s history with McCarthy at Cape Town City bolstered the coach’s confidence in recalling him.
Building on Juma’s unexpected return, he brings a wealth of experience to the team. He previously topped the Kenyan Premier League scoring charts with Kariobangi Sharks and has featured for clubs in Morocco, Libya, Algeria, Iran, and South Africa.
With over 20 international caps and several goals for Harambee Stars, his presence provides both leadership and firepower. Following recent problems with fitness and consistency, CHAN 2024 presents him with an opportunity to reassert himself as one of Kenya's most reliable forwards.
Ryam Ogam
Turning to another exciting prospect, Ogam is one to watch, as he brings youthful energy. The Tusker FC forward was leading the FKF Premier League scoring table with 15 goals last season before he was brought down by a knee injury that held him out for several months.
Now back in training and fully fit, he is still a key player in Kenya's attacking front. His pace, clever positioning, and composure in front of goal make him an ominous option, especially against high-pressing teams.
Together, the confluence of Juma's experience and Ogam's youthfulness gives Kenya a deep and balanced frontline. As Juma will be counted upon to provide calm leadership and clinical finishing, Ogam's form and dynamism give the team an explosive feel. Their combined qualities give Kenya exciting attacking possibilities at the CHAN 2024 tournament.
Mohammed Bajaber
Bajaber burst into the limelight during the March international window, scoring a stunning late goal against The Gambia to secure a dramatic 3-3 draw for the Harambee Stars.
That finish made him a fan favourite, his creativity, sharp shot, and vision inspiring hope nationwide. Since then, he has emerged as one of Kenya's most talked-about local talents.
After joining Kenya Police FC mid-season, he scored three goals in his first five games. He continues to deliver, including a crucial goal that sealed a league win over Posta Rangers.
Bajaber’s flair, versatility, and ability to unlock defences make him a true match-winner. Kenyan fans are now watching closely, hoping he builds on his breakout, both as a spark for his club and as the creative lynchpin who could tip CHAN matches in Kenya’s favour.
Farouk Shikalo
He is arguably the key player in Harambee Stars' squad as CHAN 2024 approaches.
As the team’s most experienced goalkeeper, Shikalo is expected to be the starting goalkeeper.
Recently, Kenya's performances have been characterised by a porous defense. The resignation of soft goals makes Shikalo's role more critical.
He is known for his responsiveness and commanding presence in the box. He brings stability and confidence to a team or defense.
His experience with domestic leagues and past international fixtures will prepare him. He can handle the pressures of a tournament setting.
He is responsible for clean sheets and for coordinating the backline. His leadership will be put to the test.
Fans and analysts hope his consistency and shot-stopping will drive Kenya’s CHAN 2024 success.
CHAN 2024 Kick Off
CHAN is expected to kick off from August 2 to August 30, 2025. It will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, a historic first for the tournament.
Reserved exclusively for players active in domestic leagues, CHAN 2024 features 19 national teams. Teams will battle it out across five iconic stadiums in Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, Kampala, and Zanzibar.
The tournament is divided into four groups. Kenya is in Group A with Morocco, DR Congo, Angola, and Zambia. All Kenyan matches, including the final on August 30 at Kasarani Stadium, will be played in Nairobi. This offers local fans a rare chance to cheer on Harambee Stars at home.
Ticket prices range from Ksh 200 (Regular) to Ksh 1,000 (VVIP) and are available via Mookh. Group stage fixtures are already live. Kenya will face DR Congo, Angola, Morocco, and Zambia between August 3 and 17.
The stakes are high. Groups B, C, and D feature powerhouses like Nigeria, Senegal, Algeria, and South Africa. This year’s CHAN promises to be one of the most competitive yet.
Don't miss the action, secure your tickets now, and be part of CHAN 2024! Join fellow fans in cheering on your team and experience the history of African football live.
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