KENYA: President Ruto Promises Ksh2.5M To Harambee Stars For Winning Zambia Win

… Promises Extra For Semis

By Lisbeth Micheni, Kenya 

President William Ruto has promised a significant cash incentive to Harambee Stars players ahead of their final Group A clash against Zambia in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.

Meeting the national team at the Pullman Hotel in Nairobi on Monday, August 11, Ruto assured each player Ksh2.5 million if they triumph over Zambia.

This is an increase from his earlier offer of Ksh1 million for every group match victory, a pledge that has already earned the squad Ksh2.5 million from their first three games.

The head of state further pledged Ksh1 million and a government-issued affordable housing unit to every player should they secure a place in the semi-finals by winning their quarter-final fixture.

He praised the team for uniting the nation and surpassing expectations, especially after their hard-fought 1-0 win against Morocco Africa’s top-ranked side despite playing much of the game with 10 men.

The winning goal came from Ryan Wesley Ogam.

The players, led by goalkeeper Faruk Shikhalo, also requested the president to address their concerns over access to affordable housing. Ruto promised to work on the matter.

Kenya, co-hosting the tournament alongside Uganda and Tanzania, currently tops Group A with seven points from three match victories over the Democratic Republic of Congo and Morocco, plus a draw with Angola. A win or a draw against Zambia would secure their place at the summit.

There is also a possibility of a high-stakes quarter-final against Tanzania, who have already booked their spot after winning all their Group B matches.