Nairobi: Gor Mahia Patron Eliud Owalo has announced ambitious plans to cultivate homegrown talent within the club, moving away from the traditional reliance on expensive player acquisitions. This declaration was made during a donation ceremony at the Jericho Toyoyo grounds, where Owalo provided track suits to the Gor Mahia Youth and Queens teams.
According to Kenya News Agency, Owalo emphasized Gor Mahia's focus on securing this season's league title while aspiring to regain their legendary status by once again clinching the Africa Club championships, reminiscent of the club's victorious 1987 team. Owalo, accompanied by Gor Mahia's leadership, including Chairman Ambrose Rachier, Vice Chair Sally Bolo, Secretary Nick Arum, Treasurer Gerphas Okuku, and Eliud Owalo Foundation CEO George Ochieng, stated, "Going forward we are going to run Gor as a business, just like other prominent football teams do."
Owalo also committed to seeking additional support from potential donors to elevate the club's stature. A key component of Gor Mahia's strategy is the development of youth academies, which Owalo described as crucial for the club's success. The aim is to establish a sustainable talent pipeline that consistently replenishes the senior team while instilling discipline, technical skills, and loyalty in young players to secure a lasting legacy.
Moreover, Owalo highlighted the club's intent to forge partnerships with educational institutions and community organizations to expand talent scouting efforts. These collaborations are designed to identify promising young athletes and provide comprehensive support through mentoring and scholarship opportunities, thereby fostering both athletic and personal growth and strengthening the club's community connections.
Gor Mahia holds the distinction of being the only Kenyan team to have won an African continental title, having captured the Africa Cup Winners' Cup in 1987, an achievement that continues to evoke national pride.