In a remarkable event celebrating the nation’s heroes, Gor Mahia and Harambee Stars midfielder Alpha Onyango was recognized by President William Ruto as a national hero during the 62nd Mashujaa Day celebrations. The ceremony took place at the newly inaugurated Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County on Monday, October 20, 2025.
Onyango expressed his gratitude and surprise at receiving such a prestigious honor. Taking to his official Facebook page the day after the event, he reflected on his journey, stating,
“Yesterday, during Mashujaa Day, I was deeply humbled to be named among the national heroes of our country. As a young boy growing up, I always dreamt of playing in the iconic stadiums like the San Siro and the Bernabéu and wearing the jerseys of clubs I admired like Real Madrid. But not once did I ever imagine being called a national hero.”
He emphasized that this achievement was beyond his wildest dreams and an affirmation that with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible.
Alpha’s recognition is largely due to his exceptional performances during the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), which Kenya co-hosted with Uganda and Tanzania. During the tournament, the Benni McCarthy-led Harambee Stars advanced to the knockout stages, a significant achievement in the country’s football history.
As a key player in midfield, Onyango showcased his tactical discipline and composure, earning the Man of the Match award twice: first in Kenya’s 1-0 victory against the Democratic Republic of Congo and again in the quarter-final against Mozambique, where the team faced a heartbreaking exit on post-match penalties.
In addition to Onyango, several other notable players received accolades from President Ruto, including tournament captain Aboud Omar, goalkeeper Byrne Omondi, and forward Ryan Ogam Rabok. The recognition of these athletes underscores a new era of success for Kenyan football, fostering hope and inspiration for future generations.
As Alpha concluded, his story serves as a reminder that dedication and hard work truly can lead to extraordinary achievements.