Ruto Honours Promise, Pays Harambee Stars Ksh42 Million After DRC Win
While President William Ruto had pledged a Ksh1 million reward for each win, there was initial uncertainty over how many players would benefit, especially since the squad consists of 27 players.
Marvin Chege 
The government has released Ksh42 million to the Harambee Stars following their victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo in the opening match of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) held on Sunday, August 3.
While President William Ruto had pledged a Ksh1 million reward for each win, there was initial uncertainty over how many players would benefit, especially since the squad consists of 27 players.
This was clarified on Monday, August 4, when State House spokesperson Hussein Mohammed confirmed that the government had fulfilled its commitment.
According to his statement, each player—including reserves and substitutes—will receive Ksh1 million, with members of the technical bench also set to receive the same amount.
President William Ruto shares a light moment with Harambee Stars captain Aboud Omar during a breakfast meeting on Saturday, August 2, 2025 in Nairobi, Kenya. /PCS
"President William Ruto has fulfilled his commitment to pay KSh1 million each to all 27 Harambee Stars players and 15 members of the technical bench, a total of KSh42 million, following the national team's 1-0 win over the DRC on Sunday. The Sports ministry disbursed the funds," stated Mohamed in part.
After disbursing the Ksh42 million reward, the Ministry reaffirmed that Harambee Stars players and technical staff would receive similar incentives if they secure another win in their upcoming group match against Angola on Thursday, August 7.
Kenya’s win over the Democratic Republic of Congo was sealed by a first-half goal from Gor Mahia midfielder Austine Odhiambo, who found the bottom right corner with a solo effort just before halftime.
The national team benefited from overwhelming home support, as tens of thousands of fans packed the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, to cheer them on.
Kenya’s co-hosts for the 2024 CHAN tournament—Tanzania and Uganda—have also offered their players major financial incentives. The Ugandan government, under President Yoweri Museveni, pledged Ksh301 million to the Cranes if they win the championship, while Tanzania promised Ksh51 million to their team for the same achievement.
Among the three host nations, Kenya leads in terms of player rewards, with President William Ruto promising a Ksh600 million payout to the squad if they go all the way and win the tournament.
The opening victory puts Kenya in a good position to progress to the knockout stage, but now they face Angola on Thursday, August 7 in what promises to be a first real test for Benni McCarthy's men.
Angola are seeking redemption following their 2-0 loss to Morocco in their opening game at the Nyayo National Stadium and go into the next game with experience, having made five appearances in the tournament and chasing their maiden CHAN title.
On Sunday, August 10, Harambee Stars will take on Morocco in what is arguably their toughest fixture of the tournament.
The Atlas Lions have won CHAN twice, that is back to back titles in 2018 at home and in 2020 in Cameroon, and are seeking to make history as the first team to win three CHAN titles. Additionally, they are ranked 12th in FIFA standings and became the first African nation to reach the World Cup semi-finals.
The Stars then wrap up their group fixtures against Zambia on August 17. Kenya must finish in the top two in Group A to progress to the quarter-finals.
