President William Ruto welcomed the Harambee Stars to State House on Friday, just days after the national team’s dramatic exit from the African Nations Championship (CHAN).
The players, led by coach Benni McCarthy, joined officials from the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya for a lunch reception in Nairobi. FKF president Hussein Mohamed was also in attendance.
The gathering came at the end of a spirited tournament run. Kenya bowed out after a tense quarter-final clash against Madagascar at Kasarani, where a penalty shootout ended 4-3 in favour of the visitors.
The President has built a close relationship with the team during the competition. On 17 August, after Kenya’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Zambia, he visited the players’ dressing room at Kasarani and led them in prayer.
“Our heavenly Father, we want to thank you for this team,” Ruto said, his voice steady as he prayed for success in the games ahead. “Protect them heavily, Father, and give them victory. May they inspire other young people to lift our nation.”
That moment resonated widely with fans, who praised the President for his personal show of support. Harambee Stars captain Aboud Omar later said the team felt “united by the prayers and presence of the head of state.”
For the players, the State House luncheon offered a chance to reflect on their campaign and look ahead. Despite their elimination, Kenya’s progress at CHAN has been described as one of their strongest showings in recent years, stirring hope among supporters for future tournaments.
The President’s engagement also underscored his broader commitment to sport. In recent weeks, he has pledged new financial support for athletes and promised affordable housing for national players.
As the team dispersed from State House, the mood was one of both gratitude and renewed determination. Kenya may have fallen short of CHAN glory, but for many, the Harambee Stars’ spirited fight has rekindled belief in the nation’s football future.
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