Editor's Review

President William Ruto on Saturday promised the team Sh1 million per player for every win and Sh500,000 per player in the event of a draw for every match they play.

Harambee Stars players are set to pocket Sh1 million each as a reward for their 1-0 win over the Democratic Republic of Congo in their opening match of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).

The match was played at the Moi Sports Centre, Kasarani, on Sunday.

The bonus comes as part of President William Ruto’s commitment to supporting the national team and giving them the much-needed morale to shine on the Kenyan soil.

On Saturday, Ruto committed to awarding Harambee Stars a total of Sh600 million should they go on to win the tournament.

The President made the promise while hosting the team for a breakfast meeting at the Pullman Hotel, Upper Hill, Nairobi.

Sunday’s match marked Kenya’s first fixture in this year’s CHAN competition, and the players’ performance sets the tone for what could be a strong campaign.

The government’s reward of Sh1 million per player will be a fulfilment of a pledge meant to fire up the team towards victory.

Harambee Stars squad ahead of their clash with DR Congo on Sunday, August 3, 2025.

The Sh600 million pledge is tied to overall tournament success, while individual match bonuses will be awarded at various stages.

The players were also promised Sh500,000 for every player if they drew a match.

Should the team reach the quarterfinals, they will receive Sh60 million and Sh70 million for reaching the semifinals.

Football Kenya Federation (FKF) officials confirmed the pledge.

Harambee Stars are now preparing for their second group-stage match against Angola on August 7, with expectations high following the opening win.

The CHAN tournament is reserved for players competing in their domestic leagues and provides a platform for showcasing local talent on the continental stage.

Kenya’s group includes DRC Congo, Zambia, Angola and Morocco.

A top-two finish would see them advance to the knockout rounds.

The government’s financial support, coupled with strong home crowd backing, is expected to boost morale as the team chases a historic CHAN title.