Kenya winger Boniface Muchiri earns military promotion after impressive 2024 CHAN campaign

Kenya winger Boniface Muchiri has been rewarded with a military promotion after his standout performances at the 2024 CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN).

Muchiri, who also captains Ulinzi Stars, the Kenyan Premier League side operated by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), has been elevated from Senior Private to Corporal—a significant recognition of both his contributions on the pitch and his dedication to the military.

The winger played a pivotal role for the Harambee Stars as they reached the quarter-finals in the CHAN tournament, registering two key assists and helping Kenya deliver an impressive maiden campaign at the competition designed for home-based players.

The promotion ceremony took place at the Defence Headquarters in Nairobi on Wednesday, led by General Officer Commanding Eastern Command, Major General Luka Kutto.

Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Charles Kahariri presided over the event, praising Muchiri’s achievements.

“We are very grateful for your commitment, hard work and excellent performance while serving Kenya and, by extension, the KDF. We wish you success in your future assignments and are confident you will continue to excel,” said the CDF.

Muchiri’s recognition followed a special request from Harambee Stars captain Aboud Omar, who had appealed to Commander-in-Chief President William Ruto during a visit to the team’s training camp prior to the tournament.

Omar reiterated the plea after Kenya’s memorable victory over two-time winners Morocco, which ultimately contributed to the promotion.

For Muchiri, the honour is both humbling and motivating.

“It is a massive honour to be received this way by my employer, the Kenya Defence Forces. It feels great to be appreciated like this, and it shows that whatever you do is valued,” Muchiri told CAFOnline.

“The support from the KDF in nurturing talent has been immense, and I am proud to be an example that if you perform, good things will follow.

He added: “I have managed to be where I am because of the values instilled in me at the KDF. Discipline and hard work are the foundation of the army, and anyone who observes them will always walk with favour by their side.”

Muchiri joined the KDF in late 2021 after leaving Tusker FC. In just three years, he has cemented his place as a key figure in the national team while advancing swiftly through the military ranks.

His promotion serves as an inspiration for all sportsmen and women serving in the KDF, underscoring the military’s commitment to fostering sporting excellence.