Harambee Stars’ Austin Odhiambo Shares Sh1 Million Bonus with Parents

In a touching display of gratitude, Harambee Stars midfielder Austin Odhiambo has warmed hearts across Kenya by sharing his Ksh 1 million bonus with his parents after the national team’s historic 1-0 victory over DR Congo in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 opener.

The Gor Mahia star, whose goal sealed the win, wasted no time in sending a generous portion of his earnings via M-PESA to his family in Deep Ramula, Ugunja, Siaya County.

The bonus, a promise fulfilled by President William Ruto to reward each member of the 42-member Harambee Stars squad for their triumph, hit Odhiambo’s account shortly after the match on August 3, 2025, at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

For Odhiambo, the first instinct was to honor his parents, Evaline Otieno and Barrack Otieno, who have been steadfast supporters of his football journey.

“As soon as he got the money, he sent us some,” Evaline Otieno shared in an interview with Citizen TV, her voice brimming with pride. “He asked if I was with his dad, then told us to check our phones. We just laughed and laughed. It was pure happiness.”

The 25-year-old attacking midfielder, dubbed the “Rolls Royce” for his flair and finesse, has been a standout performer in the ongoing CHAN 2024 tournament, co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Odhiambo’s goal against DR Congo not only marked Kenya’s first-ever in CHAN history but also earned him widespread acclaim, with the Harambee Stars captain and coach Benni McCarthy singling him out for praise. He followed up with a penalty in a 1-1 draw against Angola, further cementing his status as a key player.

Odhiambo’s journey to stardom began in Baba Dogo, Nairobi, where he honed his skills in local youth setups before rising through the ranks at AFC Leopards and later making a controversial switch to rivals Gor Mahia in 2021.

Named the 2023/2024 Kenyan Premier League Most Valuable Player, the Siaya-born star has become a household name, with aspirations of playing in Europe.

Reflecting on his gesture, Odhiambo dedicated his CHAN goal to his mother, who has been a pillar of support since his youth. “I dedicate the goal to my mother, who has supported my career since my youth,” he told Nation Media Group after the DR Congo match. His father, Barrack, recalled a promise from his son: “He said to me, ‘Dad, when I play for the national team, you will be proud.’”

The M-PESA gift left his parents beaming with joy. “We were so happy, and we told him, ‘Let God stand with you,’” Evaline said, recounting the moment their phones buzzed with the unexpected transfer. The act resonated deeply in Siaya, where Odhiambo’s family celebrated not just his success on the pitch but his humility off it.

As Harambee Stars prepare for their next challenge against Morocco, Odhiambo’s story serves as a reminder of the values that drive Kenya’s football heroes. With fans rallying behind the team and President Ruto’s promise of additional bonuses—Ksh 600 million if the Stars reach the CHAN final—Odhiambo’s blend of talent and heart continues to inspire a nation.