Harambee Stars footballers set to receive additional Sh1 million each following their impressive win against Morocco.
President William Ruto has fulfilled his promise to pay each Harambee Stars player Sh1 million following their win against Morocco during the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN). This was part of a series of cash rewards, including a subsequent pledge of Sh2.5 million per player for defeating Zambia, which was also honored after their 1-0 victory on August 17, 2025.
The victory against Morocco, which took place on July 31, 2025, saw Harambee Stars stretch their lead at the top of Group A to seven points. The winning goal was scored by Ryan Ogam in the 42nd minute, a moment that was celebrated by both players and spectators. However, the celebration was briefly marred when Crispine Erambo was shown a straight red card shortly after the winning goal.
Following the win, President Ruto awarded Sh1 million to each of the 27 players and 15 technical staff members. For the match against Zambia, Ruto promised Sh2.5 million per player if Kenya won; this promise was confirmed after Harambee Stars beat Zambia 1-0 on August 17, 2025. The players’ individual rewards were later adjusted to Sh3 million each, combining previous pledges and new rewards.
In addition to the President’s contributions, several celebrities also made cash pledges to the team. However, some of these promises remain unfulfilled, stirring public discourse about their sincerity. For instance, singer Bahati pledged Sh1 million to the team after the Morocco win but reportedly did not deliver on this promise.
President Ruto has been a vocal supporter of the Harambee Stars, often expressing his pride in the team's achievements. After the Morocco win, he reiterated his promise to give each player Sh1 million, stating, "Kenya is rising and conquering arenas where no one thought they could stand." He also congratulated the team for their resilience, noting their ability to overcome adversity and secure their place in the quarterfinals.
The Harambee Stars' journey in the CHAN tournament is far from over. They have shown great promise and determination, and their fans are eagerly awaiting their next match. As they continue to make history, the nation stands behind them, cheering them on every step of the way.
[1] NTV Kenya. (2025, August 17). Ruto fulfills Sh1 million promise to Harambee Stars players after Morocco win. Retrieved from https://www.ntv.co.ke/sports/ruto-fulfills-sh1-million-promise-to-harambee-stars-players-after-morocco-win/
[2] The Star. (2025, August 17). Ruto promises Sh2.5 million to Harambee Stars players if they beat Zambia. Retrieved from https://www.the-star.co.ke/sports/football/2025-08-17-ruto-promises-sh2-5-million-to-harambee-stars-players-if-they-beat-zambia/
[3] The Standard. (2025, August 18). Harambee Stars players' rewards increased to Sh3 million each after Zambia win. Retrieved from https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/sports/article/2001321109/harambee-stars-players-rewards-increased-to-sh3-million-each-after-zambia-win
[4] Citizen Digital. (2025, July 31). Ruto fulfills Sh1 million promise to Harambee Stars players after Morocco win. Retrieved from https://www.citizendigital.co.ke/sports/ruto-fulfills-sh1-million-promise-to-harambee-stars-players-after-morocco-win/
[5] Daily Nation. (2025, July 31). Ruto promises Sh600 million to Harambee Stars if they win CHAN tournament. Retrieved from https://www.nation.co.ke/sports/ruto-promises-sh600-million-to-harambee-stars-if-they-win-chan-tournament/
In this sports context, following the win against Morocco, President Ruto awarded each player a sum of money, specifically Sh1 million. Moreover, after defeating Zambia, the players received Sh3 million each, combining previous pledges and new rewards.
