Never Stop Dreaming: TotalEnergies CHAN 2024 Legends Inspire Kenya’s third tier side Kibra United
In the heart of Kibera, Africa’s largest informal settlement, football is more than a sport, it is a lifeline. For third-tier side Kibra United Soccer Club, it is a source of hope, resilience, and community pride. That spirit was reinforced when the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 Legends, Kenya’s Victor Wanyama, Uganda’s Dennis Onyango, and Tanzania’s Mrisho Ngassa, visited the team in Laini Saba, Nairobi.
The trio, icons of African football, brought inspiration, encouragement, and a message that dreams are valid, no matter where they are born. Their presence electrified the neighborhood as hundreds gathered to witness the legends interact with Kibra United and watch their friendly against Ghetto Youth Focus Foundation (GYFF).
Alongside words of encouragement, the Ambassadors also presented official CAF match balls, a valuable resource as Kibra United prepares for the new season.
Uganda’s Dennis Onyango urged the players to believe in themselves and never stop working towards their dreams.
“Never stop dreaming. Keep working, keep fighting, and always remain focused on your ambitions. I have seen so much talent here, and I believe with determination, some of you could represent your nations when East Africa hosts AFCON in 2027.”
Tanzania’s Mrisho Ngassa emphasized discipline and focus:
“Talent alone is not enough. Discipline and hard work will take you far. Many gifted players from the hood never made it because they lost focus. Stay committed, listen to your coaches, and use your talent to change your community.”
For Kenya’s Victor Wanyama, the visit was deeply personal. He rose from similar dusty pitches in Nairobi to captain his country at AFCON and star in the English Premier League.
“As a boy, I played on grounds just like this. I never gave up. I kept dreaming and working hard. Today, I want you to believe the same, that your future can be bigger than your current struggles.”
The visit left a lasting impression on the players and the wider Kibera community.
“This is a huge motivation for our players and people,” said Ismail Yassin, a Kibra United board member. “The balls are a big help as we prepare for the season, but the inspiration from these legends is even more valuable.”
Team captain Brian Odhiambo added:
“We are so grateful for this opportunity. Meeting legends who started from neighborhoods like ours gives us hope and confidence that one day, we too can rise to their level.”
For Kibra United, the day was about more than football. It was proof that the game has the power to transform lives, unite communities, and build futures. From producing players who now compete in Kenya’s top leagues and beyond, to offering mentorship and life skills to youth in Kibera, the club is a shining example of football’s impact off the pitch.
The CHAN Legends visit was part of CAF’s wider mission to take football into the heart of African communities, inspiring the next generation to dream big and believe in the beautiful game.