President William Ruto has raised the stakes for Kenya’s Harambee Stars, announcing a lucrative package of rewards as the team advances to the knockout stages of the African Nations Championship (CHAN).

The pledge came after Kenya’s hard-fought win over Morocco, which secured their historic spot in the next round. Meeting the squad at the Pullman Hotel in Upper Hill, Nairobi, on Monday, August 11, 2025, Ruto praised the players’ resilience and urged them to push even harder in the matches ahead.

Fresh Rewards to Keep the MomentumRuto outlined a new set of high-value incentives:

Sunday’s clash against Zambia – KSh 2.5 million for each player if they win.

Quarter-final bonus – KSh 1 million per player, plus a two-bedroom affordable housing unit in a location of their choice.

Building on Earlier PromisesThese offers add to generous pledges made earlier in the tournament. Ahead of the group stage, Ruto promised KSh 1 million per player for a win, KSh 500,000 for a draw, and lump-sum team rewards of KSh 60 million for reaching the quarter-finals, KSh 70 million for the semi-finals, and an unprecedented KSh 600 million for winning the title.

The President has already followed through on previous commitments. After the victory over DR Congo, KSh 42 million was paid out—KSh 1 million each to 27 players and 15 technical staff.

Inspiration Beyond BordersThe announcement has drawn admiration across East Africa. One Ugandan football fan lauded the move, saying:

“Wow! You’re an amazing and practical president. Local-based players earn very little in our domestic leagues and work under tough conditions. Rewarding them for their effort and sacrifice is inspiring. It proves resilience always pays.”

With Kenya riding high in CHAN, the President’s latest incentives are expected to further fire up the squad as they eye continental glory.