Former Kenyan International Dennis Oliech has called for a quicker integration of Gor Mahia striker Benson Omala into the National team, Harambee Stars.

Arguably the best striker in the Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) at the moment, Omala has been overlooked in recent National team assignments with Qatar-based Michael Olunga obviously being the first-choice starter as the main striker.

However, Olunga has misfired in recent games and has come under heavy criticism by Kenyan football fans especially after missing open chances against South Sudan and most recently against Russia.

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Oliech however has also come to the defence of Olunga, saying that he is one the best strikers to ever don the Harambee Stars jersey but was quick to add that his reign could be coming to an end hence the need to have the young Omala in the national team set up.

"Olunga is one of the best no doubt. He took over the mantle from me and has done well so far and the records are clear - he has scored very many goals for Harambee Stars in the past but hasn't scored in the last two or thee games. His time could be coming to an end and that is why we need Omala in Harambee Stars as quick as possible." Oliech said in an interview with Habari 254.

Oliech was speaking on the backdrop of a partnership announcement with Beyond Hoops on Wednesday 18th October.

Oliech's collaboration with Beyond Hoops, a non-governmental sports organization, aims to launch 'The Dare To Dream Festival 2023,' scheduled for Saturday, October 21, 2023, at the Riruta Stadium in Dagoretti South, Dagoretti Constituency.

This one-day event will serve as a platform to select Dagoretti area All-Star Teams for both boys and girls, who will then compete in the Africa Connect International Trials Showcase scheduled for December this year at Lenana School. Those selected will have the remarkable opportunity to secure football scholarships to study and play in the USA. In addition to football, the festival will encompass five sports disciplines, including basketball, freestyle football, Esports, and spoken word.

Mr. James Kamau, CEO of Beyond Hoops, emphasized the festival's significance, stating, "The Dare To Dream Festival 2023 is designed to identify, nurture, inspire, and empower youths from all walks of life. We aim to transform the lives of young boys and girls from the Dagoretti area and extend our efforts across the country."

Dennis Oliech expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, saying, "I am thrilled to collaborate with Beyond Hoops Africa to help youths from Dagoretti live their dreams. I made it from Dagoretti, and I will guide them to ensure they also get the chance to play football in Europe and the USA."

The Dare To Dream Festival 2023 carries an additional mission beyond sports excellence. It aims to impart vital life lessons, discourage involvement in crime, drug and substance abuse, and empower young individuals through sports and creative arts.

The event will culminate with the presentation of the Dare To Dream Lifetime Achievement Award to Dennis Oliech in recognition of his exemplary career at both club and national levels. Additionally, a tree-planting ceremony will take place, symbolizing the commitment to environmental sustainability and the fight against climate change.

Beyond Hoops Organization is dedicated to holistically training and developing responsible community members, nurturing well-rounded athletes, and preparing them physically, mentally, and emotionally for success in Africa and abroad. The partnership with Dennis Oliech is a significant step towards realizing this vision and fostering a brighter future for Dagoretti's youth.

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Oliech calls for quick integration of Omala into Harambee Stars

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