Harambee Stars’ pursuit of glory in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) has received a massive boost after former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko pledged Sh400 million to the team if they win the tournament. His announcement follows President William Ruto’s earlier promise of Sh600 million, bringing the total potential reward to an unprecedented Sh1 billion the highest-ever incentive for a Kenyan national team.
Sonko made the announcement shortly after President Ruto met the national squad at their training camp ahead of their opening fixture against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), scheduled for Sunday, August 3, at the Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi.
“The President has done a good gesture; it will motivate the players. I am not in competition with the President, but mine will be just to support his gesture,” Sonko said. “I want our team to clinch the trophy. If they do that, I will give them Sh400 million. Boys, you have Sh1 billion if you win.”
Known for his flamboyant philanthropy, Sonko noted he had previously rewarded players for individual achievements but acknowledged the potential negative impact on team cohesion. “Other times I used to reward players for every goal scored. But that at some point can bring individualism in the team,” he explained.
President Ruto, meanwhile, had unveiled a detailed reward plan to motivate the team throughout the tournament. Each player will receive Sh1 million for every win and Sh500,000 for a draw. If the team wins the championship, they will collectively take home Sh600 million tripling the previously promised Sh200 million.
“I want us to make a deal. For every game you win, every player gets Sh1 million. For every game you draw, every player gets Sh500,000,” Ruto told the players. “We had agreed on Sh200 million for making it to the finals. But I make it Sh600 million if you win the competition.”
The massive cash incentives have energized national support and added a fresh layer of motivation as Kenya eyes a historic CHAN campaign on home soil.
