Ryan Ogam and Abud Omar Tipped for Jamhuri Day Honors After Stellar Football Year

Rising Kenyan football star Ryan Ogam and veteran defender Abud Omar are among names tipped for national recognition during this year’s Jamhuri Day celebrations on December 12, following their outstanding contributions to Kenyan football in 2025.

According to reports circulating across local sports platforms, the two players have been proposed for inclusion among Kenyans to be honored for their impact in sports — particularly for their performances with the Harambee Stars and in international competitions.

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Ogam’s Meteoric Rise to the Top

At just 20 years old, Ryan Ogam has become one of Kenya’s most exciting football exports. His move to Wolfsberger AC in Austria earlier this year signaled the start of a promising European career.

Ogam has since impressed both fans and coaches with his composure, speed, and technical ability — qualities that earned him a call-up to the national team during Kenya’s CHAN and World Cup qualifying campaigns.

Sources within the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) suggest his inclusion in the proposed Jamhuri Day honors list comes as recognition for his “inspirational breakthrough that reflects the new generation of Kenyan talent making global strides.”

If confirmed, Ogam would be among the youngest athletes ever recognized at the Jamhuri Day state awards.

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Abud Omar’s Leadership and Longevity

While Ogam represents Kenya’s football future, Abud Omar stands as one of its most respected veterans. The experienced left-back — a former Tusker FC and Harambee Stars captain — has been a pillar of consistency for over a decade.

Omar’s leadership during the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) and his continued commitment to nurturing younger players have reportedly earned him consideration for national honors.

In a recent interview, Omar emphasized teamwork and discipline as key to Kenya’s recent resurgence in football, saying:

“It’s never just about one player. We’ve built a mentality that the Harambee Stars can compete again — that’s what matters most.”

His recognition would follow widespread praise after helping Kenya reach the CHAN quarterfinals — the country’s best performance in recent years.

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Why the Recognition Matters

National honors during Jamhuri Day, Kenya’s Independence Day, celebrate citizens who have made exceptional contributions to national development. While the final list is yet to be confirmed by State House, sports figures are regularly included for elevating Kenya’s global reputation.

For football, this recognition comes at a symbolic moment. Kenya is preparing to co-host AFCON 2027, and players like Ogam and Omar represent both the country’s youthful promise and its enduring experience.

Sports analysts view their potential honors as part of a broader effort to celebrate footballers driving Kenya’s return to international prominence.

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Awaiting Official Confirmation

While no formal statement has been issued by the Office of the President or the Ministry of Sports, early reports and social media reactions have already sparked excitement among Kenyan fans.

If confirmed, both players would join a growing list of athletes who have been decorated for national service and sporting excellence, including former football icons such as Dennis Oliech and Michael Olunga.

As Kenya looks toward a bright football future, the recognition of Ogam and Omar would serve as a powerful reminder that excellence, whether from emerging stars or seasoned leaders, continues to shape the nation’s sporting identity.