Kenya’s national football team, the Harambee Stars, has produced some incredible goal scorers over the years, players who have etched their names into the country’s football folklore. These athletes have not only entertained fans but have also played crucial roles in shaping the history of Kenyan football. Here’s a look at the top five highest goal scorers in the history of the Harambee Stars.
5. Livingstone Madegwa and Ali Akajo – 26 Goals
Livingstone Madegwa and Ali Akajo share fifth place on this prestigious list, each having scored 26 goals for Kenya. Madegwa, who played for the national team from 1964 to 1972, netted his goals in 49 appearances. Akajo, who represented the country from 1959 to 1969, achieved his goal tally in just 32 matches, making his achievement particularly impressive in terms of goal-scoring efficiency. Both players were instrumental in the early successes of the Harambee Stars and remain important figures in the annals of Kenyan football history.
4. Michael Olunga – 30 Goals (2015 – Present)
Michael Olunga, the current Al Duhail striker, is one of Kenya’s most prolific goal scorers and is still actively adding to his tally. As of now, he has scored 30 goals for the national team. Olunga’s journey is far from over, and he has the potential to break the all-time scoring record for the Harambee Stars. His performance has been outstanding, with one of his highlights being a hat-trick against Zimbabwe in the 2024 Four Nations tournament, a match in which he played a crucial role in helping Kenya win the trophy. Olunga’s career trajectory suggests that he may soon surpass some of the legendary figures in Kenyan football history.
3. Elijah Lidonde – 33 Goals (1950–1961)
Elijah Lidonde, a legendary striker for AFC Leopards, amassed 33 goals for the national team between 1950 and 1961. His goal-scoring efficiency is remarkable, as he achieved this tally in just 26 matches, giving him an extraordinary goal-to-game ratio. Lidonde’s contributions to Kenyan football during his time with the Harambee Stars were pivotal, and his legacy remains one of the most revered in the country’s football history. His efficiency in front of goal and his performances on the international stage set a high standard for future generations of Kenyan footballers.
2. Dennis Oliech – 34 Goals (2002–2015)
Dennis Oliech, often referred to as “The Menace,” is one of the most iconic players in Kenyan football history. He scored 34 goals in 76 appearances for the Harambee Stars during his career from 2002 to 2015. Oliech’s powerful strikes and ability to perform in crucial moments made him a fan favorite and a national treasure. One of the standout moments of his career came in the 2002 CECAFA Cup, where he scored five goals, leading Kenya to victory and earning the tournament’s top scorer award. His contributions to Kenyan football, both on and off the field, have left a lasting legacy, and he remains a key figure in the history of the Harambee Stars.
1. William Ouma – 36 Goals (1965–1977)
At the top of the list is William Ouma, who remains the all-time leading scorer for the Harambee Stars. Ouma, a former Gor Mahia forward, scored 36 goals in 66 appearances between 1965 and 1977. His goal-scoring ability and overall contributions to the national team have solidified his place in Kenyan football history. Ouma’s legacy as the top scorer is a testament to his exceptional skill and his significant role in shaping the success of the national team during his era. His record has stood the test of time, and it remains to be seen whether any player, including Michael Olunga, will surpass it in the future.
These players have left an indelible mark on Kenyan football, showcasing immense talent and dedication to the national team. As Michael Olunga continues to make strides in his career, fans eagerly await whether he will surpass the legendary William Ouma and claim the top spot in Harambee Stars’ history. The legacy of these goal-scoring greats will continue to inspire future generations of Kenyan footballers to aim for greatness on the international stage.
