Kenyan President William Ruto has promised a record 600 million shillings (approximately $167,000) to the Harambee Stars if they emerge champions at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
The declaration was made during a working breakfast held at the Pullman Hotel on Saturday, just 24 hours ahead of Kenya’s opening fixture against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The announcement comes as a significant morale boost for the national team, with the government signaling its full backing for the squad’s continental campaign.
Under the incentive plan unveiled by President Ruto, every player will receive one million shillings for each match victory and 500,000 shillings for every draw recorded during the competition.
The structured bonus scheme also includes 60 million shillings for reaching the quarter-finals and 70 million shillings for advancing to the semi-finals, with the ultimate reward of 600 million shillings reserved for bringing the trophy home.
The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) confirmed the presidential commitment in an official statement, highlighting it as a show of confidence and national pride in the team.
According to the federation, the incentive package reflects the government’s determination to motivate the Harambee Stars and inspire them to deliver historic success on the continental stage.
This financial pledge marks one of the most substantial reward packages ever offered to the Kenyan national football team. It underscores the high expectations placed on head coach and players alike as they embark on their CHAN journey.
President Ruto, addressing the team at the breakfast meeting, reportedly urged the players to represent the country with pride, discipline, and determination. He also expressed belief in the squad’s potential to make a deep run in the tournament, encouraging them to aim for the title.
The Harambee Stars will face a challenging task in Group A, which includes strong sides such as DR Congo. But the players, buoyed by the financial incentives and public backing, will be keen to prove their credentials and push beyond the group stage.
This year’s edition of CHAN, a competition reserved exclusively for players plying their trade in domestic leagues, offers a vital platform for homegrown talent to shine.
For Kenya, a strong showing would not only be a sporting triumph but also a significant milestone in the country’s football development agenda.
The promise of bonuses for each match result is expected to intensify the team’s competitive edge throughout the tournament. With millions at stake, both financially and symbolically, the Harambee Stars will be under pressure to meet the expectations of fans and government alike.
As kickoff approaches, the spotlight is firmly on the Kenyan squad. Whether they can rise to the occasion and deliver silverware remains to be seen, but they now have a powerful incentive to fuel their ambitions in what promises to be a fiercely contested championship.
