President Ruto pledges Sh600 million cash prize for Harambee Stars if they win CHAN 2024

President William Ruto and Sports CS Salim Mvurya (right) during a breakfast meeting with Harambee Stars at Talanta Plaza, Nairobi on August 2, 2025, ahead of CHAN. (Photo: PCS)

By Erick Kariuki
Saturday, August 2, 2025

During a surprise visit to the team’s residential camp in Kasarani, President Ruto pledged a substantial incentive package designed to fuel Kenya’s pursuit of continental glory.

President William Ruto has ignited fresh energy in the Harambee Stars camp ahead of their CHAN 2024 opener against two-time champions DR Congo, scheduled for Sunday, 3:00 pm at Kasarani Stadium.

During a surprise visit to the team’s residential camp in Kasarani, President Ruto pledged a substantial incentive package to reinvigorate Kenya’s pursuit of continental glory.

More To Read

Each player will pocket Sh1 million for every win and Sh500,000 for every draw in the tournament.

President William Ruto (in yellow) shares breakfast with Harambee Stars at Talanta Plaza, Nairobi, on August 2, 2025. (Photo: PCS)

Additionally, the team stands to earn Sh60 million for reaching the quarterfinals, Sh70 million for making it to the semifinals, and a staggering Sh600 million should they clinch the title.

Led by their South African coach Benni McCarthy, Harambee Stars now have more than national pride to play for; they are chasing glory and life-changing rewards in what is their first-ever appearance at CHAN.

With the tournament hosted jointly by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, the pressure and motivation to deliver on home soil are immense. Kenyans have, however, responded to the buzz with overwhelming support.

President William Ruto speaks during a breakfast meeting with Harambee Stars at Talanta Plaza, Nairobi, on August 2, 2025. (Photo: PCS)

All tickets, regular and VIP, for the opening match were sold out five days in advance.

As for the second match, set for Thursday, August 7, regular tickets are already sold out, underscoring the growing national excitement.

VVIP tickets for all matches have been reserved for heads of state and high-level dignitaries.

Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy and captain Aboud Omar. (Photo: PCS)

As the tournament kicks off today at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Tanzania, the Harambee Stars carry not only the hopes of a football-hungry nation but also the promise of a historic payday.

With packed stands and presidential backing, all eyes will be on the team to see if they can rise to the occasion and turn this moment into a defining chapter in Kenyan football.