Details of Harambee Stars duo's deal with smartphone brand

Harambee Stars and Gor Mahia stars Austin Odhiambo and Michael Kibwage have been featured in the modeling and promotion of a new smartphone model, marking what could be a significant opening for local footballers in brand partnerships.

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The duo, who played crucial roles in Kenya’s memorable run at the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, were reportedly approached due to their growing social media influence, and the strong impression they left during the regional tournament.

This marks the first time in over a decade that locally based Kenyan footballers have been involved in marketing a major consumer product.

The campaign features Odhiambo and Kibwage as ambassadors for the newly launched OPPO A6 Pro 5G, a device that was officially announced in late September 2025 as part of OPPO’s latest A6 series.

However, sources close to the players reveal that the arrangement is not yet a full-fledged endorsement deal, but rather a trial phase meant to gauge market response before a formal contract is signed.

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“A close ally of the players approached them to explore the potential of working together,” a source told Mozzart Sport.

“What they’ve done so far is just a test run. The company wants to measure the impact of their posts before finalizing any financial agreement.”

The evaluation phase reportedly hinges on the traffic and engagement generated by the duo’s promotional posts shared on OPPO’s official social media pages on Wednesday, 22 October.

Should the campaign perform well, both players could land lucrative long-term partnerships with OPPO or other brands eyeing the East African market ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Several multinational companies are already said to be exploring opportunities to work with footballers from the region, recognizing their growing popularity and influence among young audiences.

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Kenya’s most high-profile player-turned-brand ambassador remains Victor Wanyama, who has fronted several major campaigns over the years.

That includes Safaricom’s “Chapa Dimba na Safaricom,” DStv/MultiChoice Kenya’s 2018 FIFA World Cup campaign, and the 2024 CHAN partnership.

He also serves as the UN-Habitat Brand Ambassador, championing social development initiatives across informal settlements.