Kenya’s Harambee Stars are on the brink of a historic payday after President William Ruto promised to hand each player Ksh2.5 million if they defeat Zambia in their final Group A clash of the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024).
The head of state made the pledge on Monday, August 11, at the Pullman Hotel in Upper Hill, Nairobi, just a day after the team stunned Morocco 1-0 at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
The President’s latest promise builds on his earlier reward plan of Ksh1 million for every group-stage victory. He further dangled another Ksh1 million and an affordable housing unit for each player if they win their quarter-final match.
The incentive comes as Kenya sits atop Group A with seven points, needing only a draw to guarantee first place but aiming for nothing less than victory against the Chipolopolo.
Ruto Raises the Stakes for Harambee Stars
President Ruto told the players that they had already made the country proud by beating two strong sides and drawing against another. He credited their success to unity, hard work, and determination, urging them to believe that winning CHAN 2024 is within reach.
“The Harambee Stars are proof of what unity can achieve. They have brought the country together, and we are all witnessing the success it is bringing to the nation. We stand behind you, praying that this time we win CHAN because it’s within close reach,” Ruto said.
From the first three matches, each player has already earned Ksh2.5 million under the earlier pledge. The new Zambia challenge now offers a bigger reward, setting the stage for a highly motivated performance in the final group game.
Housing Promise Wins Players’ Praise
Following their 1-0 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo earlier in the tournament, Harambee Stars players, led by goalkeeper Faruk Shikhalo, asked the President to consider them for the government’s affordable housing program. Ruto assured them he would make arrangements so that players could access the housing units as part of their rewards package.
The housing offer became official when the President linked it to success in the quarter-finals. If the team advances and wins their first knockout match, each player will walk away not only with cash but also with a home.
From Underdogs to Group Leaders
When the CHAN 2024 tournament began, few expected Kenya to dominate a group featuring top-ranked Morocco, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. As co-hosts alongside Uganda and Tanzania, the Harambee Stars were tipped to battle for survival rather than lead the table.
But the team quickly silenced doubters. They opened with a narrow but vital win over DRC, followed by a resilient 1-1 draw against Angola. Then came their standout performance — a dramatic 1-0 victory over Morocco despite being reduced to 10 men for much of the match. Ryan Wesley Ogam scored the decisive goal, etching his name in Kenyan football history.
Zambia Clash Could Seal Historic Payday
Now, with seven points from three matches, Kenya is in prime position to top the group. Morocco and Angola still have mathematical chances of overtaking them, but that would require Kenya to stumble badly while other results go their way.
Beating Zambia would not only cement first place but also trigger Ruto’s Ksh2.5 million payout promise. For players already buoyed by earlier bonuses, the stakes could not be higher.
The final group match is expected to be tense, with Zambia eager to spoil Kenya’s party. However, the Harambee Stars’ form and confidence suggest they have what it takes to claim victory and secure both pride and financial reward.
Fans Rally Behind the Team
Across the country, excitement is building. Social media has been buzzing with support for the team and praise for their resilience. The President’s pledge has added extra hype, with fans urging the players to “chase the bag” while bringing glory to the nation.
Sports analysts have noted that financial incentives can provide a strong psychological boost, especially in high-pressure tournaments. If the Harambee Stars continue to combine discipline with hunger, they could go deeper into the tournament than anyone predicted.
Eyes on CHAN 2024 Trophy
With the quarter-finals all but secured, Kenya’s dream of lifting the CHAN trophy no longer seems far-fetched. A strong performance against Zambia could set the tone for the knockout stages, where Ruto’s additional Ksh1 million and housing units await.
The players know that each match now carries both national pride and personal gain. For a squad that has already delivered historic results, the coming days could define their careers and cement their legacy in Kenyan football.
