A dream is coming true for 32 of Kenya’s brightest young football talents as they prepare for an international training camp in Spain under the Safaricom Chapa Dimba All-Stars program. The team, comprising 16 boys and 16 girls, was meticulously selected from the eight regional finals held nationwide. Their journey to the global football stage begins with a departure to Huesca, Spain, on Sunday evening, December 8.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, Safaricom CEO Dr. Peter Ndegwa expressed his pride in the initiative, saying:
“At Safaricom, we believe in creating opportunities that empower young people to showcase their talents on global stages. Through this trip, we aim to provide these 32 young boys and girls with a unique and unforgettable experience, offering them the chance to engage with and learn from world-class football professionals.”
The players, who have been training at Ligi Ndogo Grounds in Nairobi, will experience an intense, week-long football boot camp in Spain. The program will include matches against Huesca’s Youth Academy, masterclasses by former professional players, and training sessions at the state-of-the-art Base Aragonesa de Fútbol in S.D. Huesca’s sports city.
For Khamis Nyale Kahindi, a member of the All-Stars team, the trip represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity:”Visiting Spain to experience world-class football firsthand has always been my dream. Thanks to Safaricom Chapa Dimba, that dream is now a reality. I am determined to make the most of this opportunity and grow my football career.”
The initiative underscores Safaricom’s commitment to nurturing young talent and exposing them to international standards of football. By adapting to a different climate and competing against elite players, the All-Stars will gain invaluable exposure and insights critical to shaping their future careers.
The squad boasts players from across the country, representing regions such as Western, Nyanza, Rift Valley, Eastern, Coast, Central, North-Eastern, and Nairobi. Among the standout names are Charity Midewa and Peris Mapenzi Safari from Western, Patience Kasichana from Nairobi, and Armstrong Omondi from Nyanza. The team is accompanied by two experienced coaches, Chrispine Odindo and Evans Oketch, and representatives from the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).
The Safaricom Chapa Dimba All-Stars program continues to serve as a beacon of hope for young athletes, bridging grassroots talent with international opportunities. As the team embarks on their Spanish adventure, they carry the aspirations of Kenya’s football-loving nation with them.