•President Ruto Set to Deliver Ksh 2.5 Million Reward to Each Player
In a pulsating display of grit, skill, and national pride, Kenya’s Harambee Stars secured a commanding 1-0 victory over Zambia on August 17, 2025, clinching the top spot in Group A of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) at Nairobi’s Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
The win, powered by a late strike from Tusker FC’s Ryan Ogam, propelled the Stars into the quarterfinals unbeaten, igniting celebrations across Kenya.
Adding to the euphoria, President William Ruto announced a Ksh 2.5 million (approximately $19,300) cash reward for each of the 27 players and 15 technical staff, with opposition leader Raila Odinga contributing an additional Ksh 500,000 per player, bringing the total to Ksh 3 million per squad member.
This historic moment, led by head coach Benni McCarthy, marks a pivotal chapter in Kenya’s footballing renaissance.
A Tactical Masterclass at Kasarani: Match Highlights and Key Performances
The electrifying clash against Zambia was a testament to the Harambee Stars’ growing prowess under the stewardship of South African football legend Benni McCarthy, who took the helm in March 2025.
With a packed Kasarani Stadium roaring in support, the Stars faced a formidable Zambian side in a match that would determine Group A supremacy in the CHAN 2024 tournament, co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
The first half saw both teams locked in a tactical chess match, with Zambia’s Chipolopolo employing a high press to stifle Kenya’s rhythm.
Goalkeeper Byrne Omondi, a standout performer throughout the tournament, made crucial saves to keep the scoreline level, while defenders Joseph Okumu and Michael Kibwage stood firm against Zambia’s probing attacks.
In midfield, Austine Odhiambo orchestrated play with precision, setting the stage for Kenya’s attacking forays.
The decisive moment arrived in the 75th minute when Ryan Ogam, a rising star from Tusker FC, latched onto a pinpoint through-ball from Odhiambo and rifled a low shot past the Zambian goalkeeper.
The stadium erupted as Ogam’s goal—his second of the tournament—sealed a 1-0 victory, ensuring Kenya finished the group stage with seven points from two wins and a draw.
McCarthy’s tactical adjustments, including a disciplined defensive setup and quick transitions, were pivotal in securing the clean sheet and the win.
Post-match, McCarthy lauded his team’s resilience, stating, “The boys showed incredible heart and discipline. This win is for the 55 million Kenyans cheering us on.” Ogam, reflecting on his match-winner, added, “Scoring for my country in front of this crowd is a dream come true. We’re just getting started.”
CHAN 2024: A Platform for Kenya’s Homegrown Talent
The African Nations Championship, often referred to as the “local AFCON,” showcases players competing in their domestic leagues, making it a unique stage for homegrown talent.
For Kenya, hosting CHAN 2024 alongside Uganda and Tanzania is a historic opportunity to elevate its footballing profile.
The Harambee Stars’ journey to the top of Group A began with a 1-0 victory over DR Congo, followed by a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Angola, where McCarthy’s tactical acumen shone through despite playing with ten men for part of the match. The Zambia win cemented Kenya’s dominance, setting up a quarterfinal clash against Madagascar.
McCarthy, a former UEFA Champions League winner with FC Porto and ex-Manchester United attacking coach, has instilled a winning mentality in the squad since his appointment.
His experience with top-tier clubs like AmaZulu and Cape Town City, combined with his time under José Mourinho at Manchester United, has brought a professional edge to the Stars.
Fans on X have praised his impact, with one user noting, “Benni McCarthy’s aura and Champions League pedigree have transformed the Stars’ confidence.”
The tournament also highlights Kenya’s depth of local talent. Players like Odhiambo, Ogam, and Kibwage, all products of the FKF Premier League, are proving they can compete at a continental level, potentially earning opportunities abroad or spots in the senior squad for the 2027 AFCON, which Kenya will co-host.
Presidential and Political Support: A Financial Boost for the Stars
In a move that underscores football’s unifying power in Kenya, President Ruto announced a Ksh 2.5 million reward for each player and technical staff member, totaling Ksh 105 million for the squad.
The gesture follows his earlier pledge of up to Ksh 600 million if the Stars win the CHAN title, a commitment that includes Ksh 1 million per win and Ksh 500,000 per draw, with additional incentives like affordable housing units for deeper tournament progress.
Ruto described the reward as “life-changing” for the semi-professional players, many of whom earn modest salaries in the FKF Premier League, averaging Ksh 80,000 to Ksh 200,000 monthly.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga amplified the celebration by pledging an additional Ksh 500,000 per player, pushing the total reward to Ksh 3 million each.
This bipartisan support reflects football’s role as a national unifier, with both leaders rallying behind the Stars’ quest for glory. “These players are our heroes. They deserve every shilling for putting Kenya on the map,” Odinga said during a press event.
The financial incentives are part of a broader government push to revitalize Kenyan sports.
Ruto’s administration, alongside the Sports Ministry, has allocated funds to improve infrastructure, such as upgrading Nyayo National Stadium, and to support grassroots development, ensuring a pipeline of talent for future tournaments.
Benni McCarthy’s Vision: A Short but Impactful Stint
McCarthy’s appointment in March 2025 was a bold move by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), replacing Engin Firat, who resigned late in 2024.
The South African tactician, whose contract runs until the 2027 AFCON, has expressed a preference for returning to club football after his tenure, citing the daily engagement of club management as his long-term passion.
However, his immediate focus remains on delivering success for Kenya, with ambitions to reach the CHAN semifinals or final and lay a foundation for the 2027 AFCON. “I believe in this team’s potential. We’re building a legacy,” McCarthy said at a press conference.
His technical team, including assistant coach Vasili Manousakis, goalkeepers coach Moeneeb Josephs, and performance analyst Pilela Maposa, has introduced a structured, disciplined approach, evident in the Stars’ cohesive performances.
McCarthy’s philosophy emphasizes attacking flair and defensive solidity, drawing comparisons to his time coaching in South Africa’s Premier Soccer League.
Looking Ahead: The Quarterfinals and Beyond
With Group A secured, the Harambee Stars now face Madagascar in the CHAN 2024 quarterfinals, a match that promises to test their mettle against a resilient opponent.
A victory could set up a high-profile semifinal, potentially against one of the tournament favorites, further boosting Kenya’s footballing credentials.
Social media is abuzz with optimism, with hashtags like #HarambeeStars and #CHAN2024 trending as fans rally behind McCarthy’s men.
The win over Zambia and the substantial rewards underscore the transformative power of football in Kenya. As the Stars chase their first major continental title since the 2017 CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup, they carry the hopes of a nation eager for sporting glory.
With McCarthy’s leadership, a talented squad, and unprecedented financial backing, the Harambee Stars are poised to make history.
Stay tuned to ICBNews for updates as Kenya’s football journey continues to captivate the continent.
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