Kenyan defender Manzur Okwaro is set to feature for the national U20 side at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, bringing with him a newfound confidence and invaluable experience from the senior Harambee Stars squad. The 19-year-old KCB center-back had a dream moment earlier this year when he made his senior team debut under coach Benni McCarthy during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Okwaro was a surprise inclusion in the squad that faced The Gambia away and Gabon at home in March, coming off the bench late in the match against the Panthers.
“That was the biggest day of my life,” Okwaro told Telecomasia.net as he reflected on his debut. “It was a moment that I will cherish forever and I won’t forget. Making my senior team debut was always on my ambition list but I didn’t know it would come early. I was excited for that moment and it inspired me a lot. Stepping onto the pitch to play for the senior team has given me a lot of motivation and a push to keep working hard.”
More than just a debut, Okwaro’s time with the Harambee Stars marked the beginning of a mentorship with McCarthy, whose guidance he now credits for shaping his development. “The coach has really helped me grow and improve. He gives me lots of advice, he tells me how to play, position myself and how to be better,” said Okwaro, who has built a strong rapport with the former Manchester United first-team coach. “Having someone like that guide you, someone who has played and coached in the biggest stages is a dream for any footballer and I am looking forward to learning more and making bigger steps in my career.”
Now, Okwaro is in camp with the Kenya U20 team as they gear up for the U20 AFCON tournament, which will be hosted in Egypt from April 27 to May 18. With Kenya drawn in a challenging Group B alongside Nigeria, Morocco, and Tunisia, the experience he’s gained from the senior team could be a key asset. Under head coach Salim Babu, the young Kenyan squad will look to defy the odds, and Okwaro is expected to play a central role in their continental campaign.