How Much Has President Ruto Promised Harambee Stars for CHAN 2024?
President William Ruto has made a major financial pledge to boost Harambee Stars as they prepare for their debut in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN). During a visit to the team’s training camp at Kasarani, Ruto announced a reward structure that could see the team earn hundreds of millions based on their performance.
Each player and staff member will receive KSh 1 million for every win, and KSh 500,000 for a draw. In addition, if the team advances through the tournament stages, they will earn KSh 60 million for reaching the quarter-finals, KSh 70 million for the semi-finals, and a staggering KSh 600 million if they lift the trophy.
Ruto was joined by Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi, and Local Organising Committee chairman Nicholas Musonye during the visit.
What Are Kenya’s Chances in CHAN 2024?
Kenya begins their CHAN journey against the Democratic Republic of Congo on Sunday, August 3, at Kasarani Stadium. They will then play Angola on August 7, Morocco on August 10, and Zambia on August 17. Despite not being tournament favorites, the team will benefit from strong home support.
Former international Titus Mulama believes the Stars can start strong. “My prediction is Kenya will win. It will be tough, but we will win because we are at home, and the boys will have the support. I don’t see many goals, but we will score,” he said.
Mulama also expressed hope for young local players. “I expect to see upcoming talent in Kenya. So I want to see local talented players. It is only through tournaments like these that they get the experience, and that’s where we get our future,” he added.
Head coach Benni McCarthy, formerly of Manchester United, has finalized the CHAN 2024 squad. The team sees a few key changes, including the replacement of Mohammed Bajaber due to injury. McCarthy is expected to rely on in-form players like Tusker’s Ryan Ogam, Migori Youth’s Masoud Juma, and Ulinzi Stars’ Boniface Muchiri.
By Yockshard Enyendi
