President William Ruto has announced a generous reward scheme to inspire the Kenya national football team, Harambee Stars, ahead of the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.
The Head of State announced on Saturday, August 2, 2025, when he paid a visit to Harambee Stars at their residential training camp in Moi International Sports Centre (MISC), Kasarani.
Each player is set to receive Ksh1 million for every match they win and Ksh500,000 for each draw. Additionally, should the team advance in the tournament, they stand to gain even more: Ksh60 million for reaching the quarterfinals, Ksh70 million for making it to the semifinals, and a staggering Ksh600 million if they clinch the CHAN 2024 title.
Ruto had earlier this month inspected MISC Kasarani. The President—dressed in a personalized Harambee Stars jersey labeled “WSR 01”—reaffirmed his full support for the team’s preparations.
Accompanied by Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, senior Football Kenya Federation (FKF) officials, and members of the Presidential Sports Board, Ruto took a tour of the facilities before addressing the team directly.
Ruto’s promises Harambee Stars
In his speech during a face-to-face meeting with the squad during their ongoing training, he encouraged the players and technical staff to give their all in the tournament, promising to grant any request they might have—on the condition that they bring the trophy home.
“So long as you promise me to win, you can request anything your heart desires, anything. This is your opportunity to shine, so utilize it,” he said.
Also Read: How Fans Will Access Nyayo and Kasarani Stadiums During CHAN
Ruto even joined national team coach Benni McCarthy for a brief touch-and-pass session on the pitch, with McCarthy playfully suggesting that the President’s ball control could benefit the squad.
He further emphasized that Kenya’s bid to host CHAN and the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027 was part of a deliberate effort to grow the sport locally.
“When I made the decision for Kenya to bid for the rights to host the CHAN and AFCON, it was intentional and deliberate. By God’s grace, we have managed to win, and we will surely make history in Kenya in 2027 by hosting AFCON,” President Ruto stated.
“By having you (Harambee Stars squad) represent 55 million people, I have come as the president of the nation to say that the country is fully supporting you, all the way till you win the tournament.”
As he wrapped up his remarks, the President urged unity within the squad and assured them that the entire nation—55 million strong—was behind them every step of the way, regardless of the prevailing challenges facing the country.
Also Read: Ruto Makes Wild Promise for Harambee Stars in CHAN 2024
Kenya is slated to host matches at MISC Kasarani and Nyayo Stadiums, with all Harambee Stars group stage games set to take place at Kasarani.
CHAN 2024 Group A full match schedule
Under head coach Benni McCarthy, Harambee Stars are drawn in a tough Group A alongside continental giants Morocco, DR Congo, Angola, and Zambia.
Matchday 1- August 3, 2025
Kenya vs DR Congo (MISC Kasarani)
Morocco vs Angola (Nyayo National Stadium)
Matchday 2- August 7, 2025
DR Congo vs Zambia (Nyayo National Stadium)
Angola vs Kenya (MISC Kasarani)
Matchday 3- August 10, 2025
Kenya vs Morocco (MISC Kasarani)
Zambia vs Angola (Nyayo National Stadium)
Matchday 4- August 14, 2025
Morocco vs Zambia (Nyayo National Stadium)
Angola vs DR Congo (MISC Kasarani)
Matchday 5- August 17, 2025
Zambia vs Kenya (MISC Kasarani)
DR Congo vs Morocco (Nyayo National Stadium)
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