Kuja na mbogi!: Ruto urges fans to rally behind Harambee Stars as CHAN hits feverpitch
Speaking from inside the pitch at Kasarani Stadium, Ruto shared a selfie video urging fans to be part of what he described as the continent’s biggest football celebration.
President William Ruto has called on Kenyans to show up in full force and cheer on Harambee Stars as the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) kicks off this weekend, with Kenya co-hosting the tournament alongside Tanzania and Uganda.
Speaking from inside the pitch at Kasarani Stadium, Ruto shared a selfie video urging fans to be part of what he described as the continent’s biggest football celebration.
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“Kenyans, are you ready for the biggest football celebration in Africa? We are hosting Chan 2024. We've got passion, we've got the players, now we need the 12th man - you! Kuja na mbogi, ama niaje. Harambee Stars all the way.”
The President had earlier met the national team in Upper Hill before making his way to the stadium, where he reinforced his call for fan support and national pride. He said the government had invested heavily in infrastructure and preparation, and now it was time for Kenyans to deliver the atmosphere and energy.
Kenya will play its first match on Sunday at 3 pm against the Democratic Republic of Congo at the same venue. The team is in Group A alongside Zambia, Morocco, and Angola. The tournament opener, however, will see Tanzania face Burkina Faso on Saturday at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
Ruto sweetened the deal for players by announcing a hefty cash reward should they triumph in the tournament. Winning the championship will earn the team Sh600 million, while reaching the semifinals will attract Sh70 million. A quarterfinal spot comes with Sh60 million.
Additionally, each player is set to receive Sh1 million for every win and Sh500,000 for each draw during the competition.
Ahead of the much-anticipated Sunday match, the Football Kenya Federation has asked fans to arrive early to avoid delays. Some roads have been closed as part of preparations, and fans are advised to plan their travel in advance to avoid the expected congestion on alternative routes.
The month-long tournament runs until August 30.
President William Ruto speaks to Harambee Stars at the Pullman hotel in Upper Hill, Nairobi, ahead of Sunday's Chan opener against the DRC, August 2, 2025.
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