President William Ruto fulfilled his Sh1 million promise to the Harambee Stars squad after their historic 1-0 win against DR Congo’s Leopards on Sunday, August 3.

The confirmation came on Monday, August 4, through State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed in a statement on X.

“President William Ruto has fulfilled his commitment to pay Sh1 million each to all 27 Harambee Stars players and 15 members of the technical bench—a total of Sh42 million—following the national team’s 1-0 win over the DRC on Sunday. Sports Ministry officials, led by Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, delivered the funds, and a similar reward awaits the team after Thursday’s game against Angola,” said Hussein.

Harambee Stars players and technical staff were all smiles after the president made a surprise locker room visit following the match, reiterating the promise he had made before the tournament began.

“Doesn’t everyone have a million now?” said Ruto.

Excitedly, the president instructed Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed to collect the funds on behalf of the players and staff.

“Tomorrow morning, Hussein, come to State House and collect these young people’s rewards.”

The president also acknowledged the man of the moment, Austin Odhiambo, congratulating him for his goal that secured Kenya’s first-ever victory in the prestigious CHAN tournament.

“You did very well. Thank you, Bwana Austin, for scoring the solitary goal,” said Ruto.

In addition to the Sh1 million promise, the president pledged Sh500,000 in the event of a draw. Should the team reach the quarterfinals or semifinals, they will be awarded Sh60 million and Sh70 million respectively. The Harambee Stars squad was further promised Sh600 million should they win the tournament.

Austine ‘Rolls Royce’ Odhiambo, Gor Mahia’s attacking midfielder, was named Man of the Match after scoring the crucial goal that clinched Kenya’s first-ever CHAN victory—sending the whole nation into a frenzy. The win marks a positive start for the hosts as they now prepare to face Angola on Thursday, August 7, at 7:00 PM EAT at Kasarani Stadium.

– By Anthony Mwangi