In a massive boost for Kenyan football, the government has fulfilled its promise by disbursing a staggering Ksh42 million bonus to the Harambee Stars following their triumphant 1-0 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in their 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) opener on Sunday, August 3rd.
State House spokesperson Hussein Mohammed confirmed the payment on Monday, August 4th, ending speculation about how President William Ruto’s pledge of Ksh1 million per player for each tournament win would be applied to the 27-man squad.
Inclusive Reward Structure:
Mohammed clarified that the substantial sum covers all 27 players, including reserves and substitutes, each receiving Ksh1 million. Significantly, the reward extends beyond the playing field, with all 15 members of the technical bench also receiving Ksh1 million each. This inclusive approach totals the confirmed Ksh42 million payout.
More Incentives on the Horizon:
Crucially, Mohammed emphasized that this reward structure is not a one-off. He reiterated that “similar rewards await Harambee Stars players and the technical team” if they secure another victory in their crucial second Group B match against Angola on Thursday, August 7th.
Victory Forged on the Pitch and in the Stands:
The hard-fought 1-0 win against the DRC was secured by a moment of individual brilliance. Gor Mahia playmaker Austine Odhiambo struck a superb solo effort into the bottom right corner just before halftime, sending the packed Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, into raptures. The team acknowledged the “immense support” from tens of thousands of passionate fans, which gave them a vital edge.
Tournament Context and High Stakes:
The victory places Kenya’s fate firmly in their own hands as they aim to progress to the knockout stages of the tournament they co-host with Tanzania and Uganda. After facing Angola, the Stars will tackle their toughest group challenge against Morocco on Sunday, August 10th, before rounding off the group phase against Zambia on August 17th.
Regional Incentive Race:
Kenya’s win bonus highlights the significant financial incentives offered by the host nations to spur their teams to glory:
- Uganda: President Yoweri Museveni’s government has promised the Cranes a colossal Ksh301 Million for winning the entire CHAN tournament.
- Tanzania: The Taifa Stars are incentivized with Ksh51 million for lifting the trophy.
- Kenya: Topping the regional offers, President Ruto has pledged a monumental Ksh600 million reward to the Harambee Stars squad should they achieve the ultimate victory on home soil.
Focus Shifts to Angola:
With the historic win bonus secured and the government’s commitment to future rewards made clear, focus now shifts entirely to the pitch. Coach Benni McCarthy and his revitalized squad, buoyed by the financial recognition and roaring home support, know that another victory against Angola on Thursday would not only significantly boost their knockout chances but also trigger another substantial Ksh42 million payout. The quest for continental glory and unprecedented financial rewards continues.
