Ruto, Raila Shower Harambee Stars with Millions After CHAN Victory

Raila Odinga and President Ruto interact with Harambee Stars players after their 1-0 win against Zambia. Photo: Raila

Kenya’s Harambee Stars are poised to receive extraordinary rewards following their remarkable performance at the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024).

Both President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga have promised millions to honor the team’s achievements.

At the beginning of the tournament, few expected the Stars to progress past the group stages, as they were placed in the so-called “Group of Death.” However, the national team exceeded expectations by overcoming continental powerhouses and advancing with resilience and determination.

After the win, Ruto announced that every player would be awarded KSh 2.5 million as a gesture of gratitude.

 “Congratulations, Harambee Stars! You have done the nation proud, inspired immense joy, and united our country in celebration. Now, march forward and conquer the continent. Do not settle for less — just as we, as a nation, must never settle for anything less than glory. As for me — nitacheza kama mimi. After all, dawa ya deni ni kulipa,” President Ruto.

President Ruto praised the team's accomplishment in a celebratory statement, portraying their victory as a symbol of the nation's resilience.

Harambee Stars's striker playing against Zambia on August 17th at Moi international stadium. Photo: President Ruto

“At the beginning of the CHAN tournament, no one gave our Harambee Stars a chance of going past the group stages. After all, we were in the so-called ‘Group of Death.’ Yet, our boys have triumphed.”

“By overcoming football giants of the continent, our boys have shown the world what it truly means to believe in ourselves. They have proven that Kenya is an ambitious nation, destined for greatness, if only we embrace faith, courage, focus, and hard work.”

Raila Odinga joined in the celebratory spirit by pledging KSh 500,000 to each player, stating that his support was intended to complement the President's gesture.

“Baba anamsindikiza ile Rais Ruto anatoa with KSh500,000 each,” Raila said, drawing cheers from Harambee Stars players.

The dual commitments ensure that each player will now receive a total of KSh 3 million, marking the largest cash prize ever awarded to Kenyan footballers at a continental tournament.

Positioned in the daunting Group A, Harambee Stars began their campaign with a 1–0 victory over DR Congo, achieving Kenya's inaugural CHAN goal and win. This triumph also earned each player a KSh 1 million bonus from the government.

In their second match, the team was reduced to 10 players against Angola, but they displayed courage and secured a 1–1 draw, with captain Austin Odhiambo scoring the equalizer from a penalty.

During their third match, Kenya surprised Morocco with a 1–0 victory, as forward Ryan Ogam scored the crucial goal under significant pressure.

The Stars concluded their group stage triumphs with another 1–0 win against Zambia, securing the top position in the group with 10 points, surpassing Morocco, which had 9 points, while DR Congo, Angola, and Zambia lagged behind.

Apart from the historic financial gain, this recognition could signify a pivotal moment for Kenyan football, which has faced persistent challenges of underfunding and administrative instability.