As excitement builds ahead of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), President William Ruto has rallied the national football team, Harambee Stars, with a morale-boosting breakfast and promises of hefty cash incentives ahead of the tournament’s kickoff this Saturday in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Kenya will open their CHAN campaign against the Democratic Republic of Congo on Sunday at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, one of the tournament’s co-host venues. President Ruto, accompanied by Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi, and CHAN Local Organising Committee Chair Nicholas Musonye, visited the team at their training camp in Nairobi.
In a bid to motivate the squad, President Ruto announced a comprehensive reward package. Each member of the Harambee Stars delegation will receive Ksh 1 million for every match won and Ksh 500,000 for every draw during the tournament. Additional bonuses include Ksh 60 million for reaching the quarterfinals, Ksh 70 million for a semifinal appearance, and a grand reward of Ksh 600 million if the team clinches the CHAN title.
“You carry the hopes of a proud nation. Play with heart, discipline, and unity,” the President urged, calling on all Kenyans to rally behind the national team.
Kenya has been drawn into a competitive Group A alongside Morocco, Zambia, Angola, and DR Congo. The biennial tournament will run until August 30, with the final slated to be held at the Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi.
CHAN 2024 features national teams composed exclusively of players active in their respective domestic leagues, making it a vital platform for showcasing local talent.
Written By Rodney Mbua
