Ruto Promises Millions To Harambee Stars Ahead Of CHAN 2024

President William Ruto has thrown his full weight behind the Harambee Stars ahead of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, pledging unprecedented cash rewards to the national team during a breakfast meeting held at the Pullman Hotel in Nairobi.

The meeting, which brought together the entire Harambee Stars delegation, comes just days before the team’s opening Group A clash against CHAN heavyweights DR Congo. President Ruto was accompanied by Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba, Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohamed, Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi, and CHAN 2024 Local Organizing Committee Chair Nicholas Musonye.

In his address, the President promised cash incentives for every match outcome, with the team set to receive KSh 1 million per player and official for every win, and KSh 500,000 for a draw. The President further announced tiered bonuses, with the team promised KSh 60 million if they qualify for the quarter-finals, KSh 70 million for reaching the semi-finals, and an eye-catching KSh 600 million should they lift the CHAN 2024 title.

“These rewards are not just about money,” said President Ruto. “They are about belief. We believe in you. Go out there and make Kenya proud.”

The pledges come at a time when morale is high in the Harambee Stars camp. Head coach Benni McCarthy has selected a youthful and dynamic squad, many of whom play in the Kenyan Premier League and are making their debut on the continental stage. With their first match set for Sunday, August 3, at the Kasarani Stadium, the team is under pressure to deliver in what many are calling the “Group of Death,” featuring Morocco, Zambia, and Angola.

Beyond financial promises, President Ruto urged Kenyans to put aside political differences and rally behind the team throughout the tournament. He encouraged fans to treat the Harambee Stars as “their political party” during the competition, popularising the rallying call: “Stars Must Win.”

“We have passion, we have talent, and we now need the 12th man—you, the fans,” said Ruto. “Let’s fill the stadiums. Kuja na mbogi. Harambee Stars all the way!”

The CHAN 2024 tournament, which features national teams made up exclusively of players active in their domestic leagues, is being hosted in Kenya across multiple venues. The Harambee Stars’ opening match at Kasarani has already sold out, with thousands of fans expected to stream in as early as 10 a.m. Security agencies have announced strict crowd control protocols, and fans have been urged to arrive early and comply with stadium regulations.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has also significantly increased prize money for this year’s tournament. The CHAN 2024 champions will take home KSh 452 million, while the runners-up will receive KSh 155 million. Combined with the government’s pledges, the financial stakes have never been higher for the Kenyan team.

As the Harambee Stars prepare for their first match, anticipation across the country is palpable. With state support, a solid home crowd, and clear incentives on the table, Kenya is hoping to not only impress on the pitch but to make history on home soil.

Whether this generation of players can rise to the occasion and deliver continental glory remains to be seen—but one thing is clear: the entire nation will be watching.

Read: Kenya vs D.R. Congo: Key Expectations on CHAN 2024 Opener

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