President William Ruto has dramatically raised the stakes for Kenya’s national football team, Harambee Stars, just hours before the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) kicks off.
Speaking at a breakfast meeting with the team at Pullman Hotel in Nairobi, President Ruto pledged a performance-based bonus package worth up to Sh600 million if the team wins the tournament with a perfect record.
“I have decided to triple the original bonus structure to bring your potential earnings to Sh600 million,” Ruto said, drawing loud applause from players and officials. “It’s time to give your all.”
Under the revised structure, each player will receive Sh1 million for every win, and Sh500,000 for a draw. Kenya’s squad of 40 players and technical staff could earn up to Sh280 million for a perfect run in the group stages.
Additional bonuses include Sh60 million for reaching the quarterfinals, Sh70 million for the semifinals, and Sh90 million for making it to the final.
Though the bonus for winning the final was not specified, projections suggest that a tournament victory with a flawless record would push total payouts beyond Sh600 million.
In a show of support, former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko added that he would personally top up Sh400 million if the team clinches the title. “This is not just a promise. it’s a pledge to support our boys all the way,” Sonko said in a statement.
Kenya is co-hosting this year’s CHAN tournament with Uganda and Tanzania. The opening match kicks off tonight in Dar es Salaam, with hosts Tanzania taking on Burkina Faso.
Harambee Stars will play their first match on Sunday against the Democratic Republic of Congo at Nairobi’s Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
President Ruto also called on Kenyans to unite behind the national team: “This month, our only party is Harambee Stars,” he said. “This is our time to shine. Both as hosts and champions.”
The final is scheduled for August 30 at Kasarani Stadium.
