Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy and Starlets counterpart Beldine Odemba received prestigious state honors from President William Ruto during Jamhuri Day celebrations, alongside other Kenyan sports figures.
McCarthy earned the Head of State Commendation (HSC) for guiding the Stars to the 2024 CHAN quarter-finals. Odemba secured the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS) after qualifying the women’s team for WAFCON 2026—their first appearance in nine years—following a dominant 4-1 aggregate win over Gambia.
Gor Mahia’s Austin Odhiambo and ex-Stars captain Musa Otieno also received awards, including the Order of the Golden Warrior (OGW) and HSC, respectively. Athletics stars Emmanuel Wanyonyi and Lilian Odira, plus Kenya Rugby Union’s Harriet Okach, joined the 881 honorees for their outstanding contributions.
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