NAIROBI, Kenya– President William Ruto has led the nation in celebrating Harambee Stars after their hard-fought 1-0 win over Zambia in the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN).
The victory, secured in a tightly contested encounter, not only booked Kenya a place in the quarter-finals but also revived the country’s footballing pride on the continental stage.
In a statement, President Ruto hailed the team for defying expectations in what was initially described as the “Group of Death.”
“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,” the President said.
He praised the players’ determination and resilience, saying their performance was a reminder that Kenya is a nation destined for greatness when faith, courage, focus, and hard work are embraced.
“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,” Ruto said.
The Head of State also announced a cash reward of Sh2.5 million for each Harambee Stars player, saying their effort had inspired immense joy and unity across the country.
“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,” he added.
President Ruto, in his characteristic humorous tone, concluded: “As for me — nitacheza kama mimi. After all, dawa ya deni ni kulipa.”
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua also joined Kenyans in applauding the team, describing the victory as a proud moment for the country.
“Super win for the Harambee Stars today! Your victory fills every Kenyan with pride as you showcase the true Kenyan spirit and resilience,” he said in a statement.
Gachagua termed the qualification to the quarter-finals a bold entry and urged the team to maintain the same momentum.
“Congratulations on a masterful performance and a bold entry into the quarter-finals. You’ve made us all proud! Always Harambee Stars!” he added.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki equally congratulated the team, crediting both the players and the technical bench for restoring Kenya’s footballing glory.
“Congratulations Harambee Stars on your 1-0 win over Zambia. You, the players and the technical bench, have restored Kenya’s glory in football. The entire nation cheers you into the quarter finals and beyond, to the very end,” Kindiki stated.
The leaders’ messages reflect the mood of the nation as Kenyans celebrated across cities and towns, with fans expressing hope that the team can go all the way to clinch the continental title.
The win against Zambia capped a remarkable group stage campaign for Kenya, which saw them overcome established footballing powerhouses to secure passage into the knockout stages.
Football analysts have described the achievement as a turning point for Kenyan football, which has in recent years faced challenges including suspensions, wrangles, and poor international outings.
For many fans, the Harambee Stars’ success has rekindled belief in the country’s potential on the global sporting stage. The players’ fighting spirit, teamwork, and discipline have been hailed as the perfect recipe for success at the tournament.
With the quarter-finals now beckoning, the nation’s eyes remain fixed on the Harambee Stars, whose dream run continues to unite Kenyans in rare fashion.
