The Kenyan Premier League is like a colorful competition where African players show their amazing football skills.
These players are like the foundation of the league’s success. Their incredible skills and dedication are like threads woven into the very fabric of the league’s story of achievement.
They work hard and bring their best to the field, making the league shine brightly in the world of football.
1. Dennis Oliech
Dennis Oliech made his mark as a striker during his career.
He was a member of the Kenya national team and is the nation’s second-highest goal scorer with 34 goals, behind William “Chege” Ouma.
This solidifies his status as one of the country’s top footballers.
Oliech retired from international football in 2016 after a successful career. His goal-scoring ability, agility, speed, and clinical finishing in the Kenyan Premier League made him a legend, inspiring aspiring footballers.
2. Francis Kahata
He’s a versatile player, comfortable both as a left midfielder and an attacking midfielder. He has represented the Kenya national team several times and has proved his skills on the international stage.
His adaptability on the field makes him valuable to any team he joins, and his talent is recognized by his national squad.
A midfield maestro, his accurate passes and creative playmaking set him apart.
His vision on the field creates many scoring opportunities, making him an essential player for any team.
3. Jacques Tuyisenge
Jacques, a native of Rwanda, operates as a forward for APR F.C., a club based in the capital city of Kigali. An additional feather in his cap is his role as the captain of the Rwanda national team.
Jacques has carved out a path of success in his career, amassing several awards and accolades.
His journey in football took root at a young age, affording him the opportunity to refine his skills and technique. His profound love for the sport is palpable in his performances on the field.
Known for his speed, adept dribbling, and prowess in scoring goals, he stands out for his vibrant energy and enthusiasm, earning admiration from fellow players and fans alike.
His substantial contributions have significantly impacted APR F.C.’s success.
4. Haron Shakava
He started his football career in the Kenyan Premier League, playing for AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia.
He later moved to the Zambia Super League, joining Nkana FC in 2017. He became a key player for the team, contributing to their success. Shakava is an experienced defender, showcasing his ability to read the game and stop attacks.
He’s also a key member of the Kenya national team, participating in the African Nations Cup and other international tournaments. His skill, determination, and leadership have played a major role in the team’s achievements.
A commanding defender, Haron Shakava’s solid defensive skills and leadership make him a crucial player. His aerial ability and game reading allow him to effectively disrupt opponent attacks.
5. Shafik Batambuze
Batambuze, a midfielder from Uganda, shines on the field for Kenyan football team Gor Mahia.
With over 10 years of professional experience, he brings a wealth of skills to the team. Batambuze has played for various African clubs, including Express FC, Kampala City Council FC, and Vipers SC.
He’s also a vital part of the Ugandan national team, competing in international tournaments like the Africa Cup of Nations and the CECAFA Cup. His journey with Gor Mahia began in 2016.
Batambuze’s remarkable versatility as a left-back, along with his contributions in defense and offense, make him stand out. His accurate crosses and strong defensive performances rank him among the league’s top players.
6. George Odhiambo
Odhiambo’s skillful dribbling and creative playmaking made him a joy to watch. His ability to unlock defenses and create scoring opportunities marked him as a true playmaker.
He started his journey in football with Gor Mahia in Kenya when he was just 16 years old. Rising through the ranks, he became a standout player for Gor Mahia and received the “Most Promising Player” award during the 2009 Kenyan Premier League.
The following year, in 2010, he earned recognition as the Kenyan Premier League Player of the Year.
After a less successful stint in Denmark, Odhiambo made a move to Azam in the Tanzanian Premier League at the beginning of the 2012 season.
However, his time there didn’t go as planned, as he lost his spot within the team and was eventually let go from his contract in July.
7. Masoud Juma
Spotted through a national talent search event at Kasarani, he caught the attention of the Kenyan National Super League team Shabana.
In the 2014 season, Juma made a significant impact by netting five goals in a span of three months, inviting comparisons to the legendary Kenyan striker Dennis Oliech.
Amid strong interest from top clubs, he penned a two-year contract with Kenyan Premier League outfit Bandari during that summer.
While Juma displayed initial promise in the 2015 season, fate took a turn.
During a match against SoNy Sugar in April, he endured an ankle injury that sidelined him for five months. Coincidentally, this occurred shortly after receiving a call-up to the Kenya U23 squad.
8. Henry Atola
Henry rose through the ranks with Green Commandos SC in the National Super League.
At Lihrembe Arsenal FC, he secured back-to-back Cleophas Malala Super Cup wins in 2018 and 2019. He impressively earned the Golden Boot Award in both editions of the tournament.
In January 2020, he inked a 3-year contract with Kenya Premier League’s Tusker F.C. Opting for guaranteed top-flight minutes and the chance to play alongside his brother Sammy, he turned down interest from AFC Leopards and Kakamega Homeboyz.
On December 13, 2020, he marked his impact by netting his debut goal for Tusker F.C., winning a 2–1 victory against Gor Mahia as a substitute.
His accomplishments shone further as he earned both the Premier League and Tusker’s Player of the Month titles for January 2021, contributing four goals and an assist.
In March 2021, local reports indicated that Zamalek of the Egyptian Premier League and Tanzanian club Simba were monitoring his progress.
In September 2021, Swedish top-tier club AIK announced Meja’s signing on a five-year contract. His arrival for pre-season preparations was scheduled for January 2022.
9. Allan Wanga
In 2005, he became a part of Kisumu-based Lolwe FC, which competed in the Nationwide League, the second-tier football league in Kenya.
However, his stint was short-lived – a mere three months – as the Nationwide League was undergoing revamping and subsequently closed down. He had plans to move to Agro-Chemical, but the transition didn’t materialize due to threats from Agro players concerned about their positions on the team, as per Wanga’s account.
Following this, he returned home and his mother, Noel, encouraged him to consider a military career. Unfortunately, he didn’t pass the army test.
He found another opportunity with Sher Karuturi, a Kenyan top-flight club.
While waiting for a contract offer, his brother Richard presented a job opportunity in Canada, leading Allan to join him in Nairobi. However, this prospect didn’t come to fruition.
After nearly a year without a club, Lowle reached out to him in late 2006, prompting his return.
Subsequently, he was picked up by Tusker F.C., a Premier League club, in early 2007.
His association with Tusker continued until the conclusion of the 2007 season when his team emerged as league champions. Wanga’s performance was notable, as he managed to score 13 goals in his final nine matches for Tusker FC, contributing to a total of 21 goal
10. Robert Matano
His success in the league earned him a place in history.
Robert Matano is a well-known figure in Kenyan football. He used to play for Kenya and now coaches the Harambee Stars.
He has won the Kenyan Premier League title four times.
His first win was with Sofapaka F.C. in 2009, and then he won three more times with Tusker F.C. in the 2012, 2020-21, and 2021-22 seasons. He’s one of the most successful managers in the league’s history.
He also played for Kenya in the 2012 African Nations Cup, where they came in 4th place.
Other Notable Names In Kenyan Premier League
- George Odhiambo
- Jesse Were
- Enosh Ochieng
- John Makwatta
- Benson Omala
- Derrick Otanga
- Anthony Akhulia
- Bernard Mwalala
- Patrick Aussems
- Boniface Ambani
