Kenyan leaders unite in praise as Harambee Stars make CHAN history against DR Congo
The electrifying atmosphere at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, reached its peak when midfielder Austin Odhiambo netted the only goal of the match late in the first half.
Kenya’s 1–0 triumph over continental heavyweights DR Congo in their CHAN 2024 opener sparked jubilation across the country, with fans and national leaders hailing the win as a defining moment in the resurgence of Kenyan football.
The electrifying atmosphere at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, reached its peak when midfielder Austin Odhiambo netted the only goal of the match late in the first half.
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His clinical finish—capping off a well-orchestrated team move—secured all three points and handed Kenya a dream start to their debut campaign at the African Nations Championship.
Odhiambo’s goal sent the packed stadium into a frenzy, as thousands of supporters roared in celebration. The excitement quickly spilt beyond the stadium, with messages of congratulations flooding social media and other platforms, including from top political leaders.
President William Ruto, who was among the thousands cheering at Kasarani, praised the team for their performance and described the result as the dawn of a new era in Kenyan football.
President William Ruto congratulates Harambee Stars players in their dressing room at Kasarani Stadium after their 1-0 victory over DR Congo in their CHAN 2024 opener. (Photo: Courtesy)
“We salute Harambee Stars for an outstanding and entertaining display of talent. Your victory today against the Democratic Republic of the Congo is the beginning of what promises to be a historic chapter in Kenyan football,” Ruto wrote on X.
He added, “Thank you, Austin Odhiambo, for sealing the win. We are living up to the rallying cry Stars Must Win. We are behind you all the way.”
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi also praised the squad, calling the result a “powerful start” to the tournament.
“Bravo Harambee Stars! A powerful start with a solid win against DR Congo in our opening CHAN 2024 fixture,” he said.
“The team has shown the spirit, the fight, the pride. This is the Kenya we believe in. Let’s carry this momentum all the way!”
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua also applauded the team’s efforts:
“Congratulations, Harambee Stars, on your 1–0 win in the opening CHAN match against DR Congo at Kasarani! Well done, and best wishes in the upcoming matches.”
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka gave a special mention to both the goal scorer and the technical team:
“What a historic victory, Harambee Stars! Austin Odhiambo, your name is clearly written in the stars. Well done, skipper Aboud Omar, coach Benni McCarthy and the entire team.”
Kenya’s Harambee Stars has celebrated a 1–0 victory over DR Congo at Kasarani Stadium in their CHAN 2024 opener. (Photo: Courtesy)
Kenya’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Nairobi and the United Nations Environment Programme, Ababu Namwamba, said the team had fulfilled its promise.
“Super proud of you lads! Promise made, promise kept. Keep winning, keep uniting the nation,” Namwamba said, adding that he had spoken with the players earlier in the day to offer encouragement.
Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano urged the team to showcase Kenya’s identity through their performance:
“Harambee Stars, you’ve got this. Shine bright, make us proud, and let the world see the heart of Kenya through your performance. We are with you every step of the way.”
Health CS Aden Duale framed the win as a reflection of the nation’s potential: “A strong, disciplined team effort—your performance embodies the spirit of a healthy and prosperous nation.”
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo added:
“Congratulations to the team for a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Congo’s Leopards. May the spirit of Harambee lead us all the way to the finals!”
Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi commended the players’ resilience and drive:
“Full-time hustle, full-time pride! Congratulations to our Harambee Stars for a solid win against the DRC in the CHAN qualifier. The team played with heart, grit, and purpose. On to the next round—we believe.”
Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Principal Secretary Esther Muoria said the win was both a sporting milestone and a source of national pride:
“This win is not only a testament to the hard work, discipline, and unity of our players, but also a proud moment for our country as a whole,” she said.
“Your determination on the field inspires the youth across Kenya, including thousands of TVET trainees, to believe in themselves and strive for excellence in their respective fields.
May this victory be a stepping stone towards even greater success in the tournament. Hongera Harambee Stars! Hongera Kenya!”
The win was especially significant as it marked Kenya’s first-ever appearance in the CHAN finals—and came against one of the competition’s most decorated sides. For many, it symbolised the start of a promising new chapter for Kenyan football.
Harambee Stars will next face Angola on Thursday, while DR Congo hope to bounce back in their upcoming match against Morocco.
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