NAIROBI, Kenya — President William Ruto made an unannounced appearance at Harambee Stars’ training session at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, and he didn’t just bring pep talk—he brought the full weight of State House.
Flanked by Cabinet Secretaries Salim Mvurya (Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports), Soipan Tuya (Defence), and Webuye West MP Dan Wanyama, the President not only inspected the stadium’s readiness for next month’s Africa Nations Championship (CHAN), but also gave the national team a much-needed morale boost.
“I have come here as President of Kenya to say that we trust and believe in you,” Ruto told the players as they took a break from drills on the turf. “We believe in your capacity; we believe in your potential.”
The President’s visit comes at a crucial time as the countdown begins to CHAN 2024, which Kenya is set to co-host.
The revamped Kasarani Stadium is one of the key venues expected to showcase the country’s sporting readiness and hospitality to the rest of the continent.
Ruto made it clear this wasn’t just about kicking a ball. It was about pride, unity, and the massive responsibility that comes with donning the Harambee Stars jersey.
“You’re not just playing for a team—you’re carrying the hopes of more than 55 million Kenyans,” he said. “We’re behind you.”
The President’s surprise drop-in wasn’t just a photo op. It was also a message to skeptics and fans alike that the government is taking sports seriously—not just as entertainment but as a unifying force and economic engine.
His presence at Kasarani signaled full presidential backing for the team and the tournament itself.
With CHAN just weeks away, the Harambee Stars are under pressure not only to perform but to prove that Kenya deserves a seat at the top table of African football. Ruto’s words added fuel to that fire.
It’s not every day the Commander-in-Chief drops by practice and tells you he believes in you. But when he does, the nation listens—and so does the team.