Ruto Announces Huge Bonuses for Harambee Stars: Sh600M for CHAN Victory, Sh1M per Player per Win

President William Ruto has unveiled a comprehensive financial incentive package for Kenya’s national football team, the Harambee Stars, as they prepare for their debut in the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2025.

During a visit to the team’s training camp at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani Annex, on July 16, 2025, Ruto unveiled a comprehensive bonus structure that includes KSh 1 million for each player per victory and KSh 500,000 per draw, alongside team bonuses of KSh 60 million for reaching the quarterfinals, KSh 70 million for the semifinals, and KSh 600 million if they win the tournament.

The announcement comes as Kenya, alongside co-hosts Uganda and Tanzania, prepares to host the biennial tournament from August 2-30, 2025. The Harambee Stars face a challenging Group A draw, competing against two-time champions Morocco, DR Congo, Angola, and Zambia in their first-ever CHAN appearance.

“I have come here as the President of Kenya to say that we trust and believe in you. You represent the hopes and dreams of over 55 million Kenyans,” Ruto told the players and coaching staff led by head coach Benni McCarthy.

“Win this tournament, and I will ensure a KSh 600 million bonus for the team. Each victory will earn every player KSh 1 million, while draws will bring KSh 500,000 per player. Reach the quarterfinals and the team gets KSh 60 million, make it to the semifinals for KSh 70 million.”

President William Ruto juggles the ball during a visit to the Harambee Stars’ training camp.

The presidential pledge builds on earlier commitments made during the same visit.

Ruto donated KSh 5 million to the team as immediate support, delivered that evening through Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya.

This was supplemented by KSh 500,000 from Mvurya and KSh 200,000 from Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed to boost team morale entering residential training.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced a record KSh 1.34 billion prize pool for CHAN 2025, representing a 32% increase from the 2023 edition.

Even a last-place finish in their group would guarantee the Harambee Stars KSh 25.8 million, while tournament champions will receive KSh 452.2 million.

Coach Benni McCarthy, former Manchester United assistant coach, recently made strategic squad adjustments ahead of the opening match against DR Congo on August 3 at Kasarani.

He brought in Police FC midfielder Marvin Nabwire, Bandari goalkeeper Byrne Omondi, Shabana FC’s Brian Michira, Tusker FC’s Chrispin Errambo, and Sofapaka forward Edward Omondi to replace players ruled out due to injuries or contract ineligibility.

Former Harambee Stars coach Jacob ‘Ghost’ Mulee emphasized the tournament’s significance for Kenya’s domestic league. “This is where we gauge how strong our FKF Premier League is. These players have a chance to showcase their talent and earn consideration for bigger international assignments, like AFCON 2027,” Mulee said.

The tournament offers local talent a platform to attract scouts from top African and European clubs, raising the stakes for the Stars beyond financial incentives.

Despite the presidential support, the FKF faces significant financial challenges, including over KSh 600 million in debts and ongoing legal disputes. Former coach Engin Firat recently highlighted issues with unpaid salaries and logistical shortcomings that could affect team preparations.

“This is not just about pride; it’s about investing in our players and giving them a reason to dream big,” said Sports CS Mvurya.

As Kenya prepares to host the CHAN final, Ruto’s bold promises and national support signal high expectations for the Harambee Stars. With the weight of a nation’s aspirations and the prospect of historic financial rewards, the team is positioned to chase both glory and a significant payday in their inaugural CHAN appearance.