NAIROBI, Kenya – President William Ruto has rallied the nation behind the Harambee Stars with a passionate call for unity — and a mouth-watering incentive package that could change the players’ lives forever.
Speaking after meeting the national football team to congratulate them on their historic qualification for the CHAN knockout stages, Ruto said the Stars had proven what Kenyans can achieve when they stand together.
“Unity has always propelled us forward. We must never allow negativity, failure, or doubt to prevent us from reaching our full potential,” the President said.
“If we believe in ourselves and refuse to let division or hate enter the equation, Kenya can become the great nation we all dream of.”
The President lauded Harambee Stars for their spirited 1-0 victory over Morocco in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) and promised hefty rewards for further success in the tournament.
Meeting the team on Monday, Ruto hailed the win as a testament to unity and determination, saying the Stars had “brought the country together” with their performance.
“Unity has always propelled us forward. The Harambee Stars are proof of what unity can achieve,” the President said. “We are praying that this time we win CHAN because it’s within close reach.”
Unity has always propelled us forward. We must never allow negativity, failure, or doubt to prevent us from reaching our full potential. If we believe in ourselves and refuse to let division or hate enter the equation, Kenya can become the great nation we all dream of.The
The Head of State announced a Sh2.5 million bonus for each player if Kenya beats Zambia in their final group match on Sunday.
Victories in the quarter-finals would earn players Sh1 million each and a two-bedroom affordable housing unit in a location of their choice.
Kenya’s win over Morocco — ranked among Africa’s top footballing nations — was historic, sealing their first-ever qualification for the CHAN knockout stages.
Tusker FC striker Ryan Ogam scored the decisive goal in the 42nd minute, finishing off a swift counterattack.
The Stars played the entire second half with 10 men after midfielder Chrispine Erambo was sent off just before halftime.
Head coach Benni McCarthy praised his players’ resilience and the role of home support in the hard-fought win.
“I told the players the team that wants it more is the team that runs harder,” McCarthy said. “Morocco had more of the ball, but in the end, the three points were ours. We deserved this win.”
He credited the fans for driving the team over the line.
“Without their energy, I doubt we’d have survived — not with 11 men, let alone 10,” McCarthy noted.
The Stars face Zambia on Sunday with top spot in the group — and millions in presidential bonuses — at stake.