NAIROBI — President William Ruto has promised multi -million in rewards to Harambee Stars players ahead of their first match in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), set for this Sunday at Kasarani Stadium. President Ruto met the national team on Friday morning during a breakfast at their camp in Nairobi. President Ruto pledged Ksh 1 million for every match won and Ksh 500,000 for each draw throughout the tournament. Additional bonuses include Ksh 60 million if the team reaches the quarterfinals, Ksh 70 million for advancing to the semifinals, and a staggering Ksh 600 million if they win the championship.
“Every match you play is a chance to write history. Play for your nation, and rewards will follow,” President Ruto said during the event. Speaking to reporters, team captain Michael Olunga said the players were energized by the visit and the President’s gesture. “It shows belief in us. Now we have even more reason to go all out,” he said.
President Ruto urged all Kenyans to support the team. “Let’s fill Kasarani. Let’s show them what home advantage means,” he said. The President was joined by Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi, and Local Organizing Committee Chair Nicholas Musonye. The delegation expressed confidence in the squad’s readiness and assured the players of full government backing.
Kenya’s CHAN 2024 campaign begins on home ground against the Democratic Republic of Congo at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani. The team is placed in Group A alongside Zambia, Morocco, Angola, and DR Congo. Kasarani will also host the tournament final on August 30.
CHAN is a tournament for locally based players organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Kenya returns to the tournament after missing recent editions due to disqualification and withdrawal.
The national team has been in camp for three weeks, preparing under head coach Engin Firat. Kenya’s Football Federation confirmed that the team had completed friendly matches against Sudan and Tanzania in the run-up to the opening match.
A report from CAF last week highlighted the improved match fitness and technical cohesion of the Harambee Stars, noting stronger midfield control and higher goal conversion rates compared to past performances.
The CHAN 2024 tournament, which rotates between host nations every two years, is expected to draw significant crowds and media attention across the continent. It also marks the first time Kenya is hosting the event to completion after a failed bid in 2018.
The government confirmed logistical support had been finalized, with improved infrastructure, team transport, and security at match venues.
Kickoff for Kenya’s opener against DR Congo is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. Sunday.
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