Harambee Stars striker Benson Omala has completed a surprise transfer to Cambodian Premier League side Visakha FC, marking a fresh start after a turbulent year that saw his overseas ambitions tested by instability and setbacks.
The 23-year-old forward, who rose to prominence at Gor Mahia and Western Stima, departed Kenya on July 3 to officially join the Southeast Asian outfit. The move signifies Omala’s determination to continue his professional journey outside Africa, following a difficult stint with Lebanese club Al-Safa.
Omala had joined Al-Safa in August 2024 after a failed move to Algerian side JS Saoura due to paperwork delays. However, his time in Lebanon was short-lived and fraught with challenges. The Lebanese Premier League was suspended in October 2024 due to escalating military conflict in the region, leading to a halt in all football activities. Although the league resumed months later, Omala opted not to return, citing unpaid wages and growing security concerns.
He made a temporary return to Gor Mahia, but his comeback was delayed by administrative issues surrounding his International Transfer Certificate (ITC), which remained held by the Lebanese club. The matter escalated to FIFA, and it was only in April 2025 that Omala was cleared to resume playing competitively.
Upon his reinstatement, Omala played a role in Gor Mahia’s campaign, although the club narrowly missed out on the FKF Premier League title and lost the FKF Cup final to Nairobi United. His departure now marks the end of his third spell at the club, where he left a lasting legacy as one of the league’s most prolific forwards. With 45 goals over two seasons, Omala was pivotal in securing back-to-back league titles for Gor Mahia.
The move to Visakha FC places Omala in a relatively uncharted territory for Kenyan footballers. The Cambodian Premier League has experienced a steady rise in profile, backed by increased investment and a growing appetite for foreign talent. Visakha FC, in particular, have earned a reputation as one of Cambodia’s most ambitious clubs, consistently competing for domestic honors and featuring in regional competitions.
Omala’s move reflects his unwavering ambition to prove himself on the global stage. With past efforts to break into North African and Middle Eastern football hindered by external challenges, this new chapter in Southeast Asia offers a promising opportunity for both personal development and professional stability. The striker is expected to bring pace, finishing prowess, and a winning mentality to his new club.
As he embarks on this next phase of his career, Omala will be hoping to rekindle the form that once made him a standout name in Kenyan football and inspire others to pursue international opportunities across the globe.
