Harambee Stars are set for a significant morale boost as they prepare for their final Group A match in the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024) against Zambia on Sunday, August 17. With the team aiming to finish the group stage strongly and advance to the quarterfinals, President William Ruto has announced an increase in cash rewards and additional incentives for the players.
During a visit to the team and technical bench at their Nairobi hotel, the President congratulated the squad for their remarkable 1-0 victory over two-time champions Morocco. He praised the unity and determination displayed on the pitch, noting that it had united the country and inspired confidence in the team’s ability to challenge for the CHAN title.
As part of the new incentive package, the President pledged that each player will receive KSh 2.5 million if they secure a win against Zambia. Additionally, a quarterfinal victory will see every player earn KSh 1 million and receive a two-bedroom affordable housing unit in a location of their choice. These new promises come on top of earlier rewards for wins and draws during the tournament, where a win had been worth KSh 1 million and a draw KSh 500,000. So far, the team has collected rewards for victories over DR Congo and Morocco, and for a draw against Angola.
Earlier commitments also included KSh 60 million for reaching the quarterfinals, KSh 70 million for making the semifinals, and a massive KSh 600 million prize for winning the title. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has also confirmed a tournament prize purse of KSh 1.3 billion, with KSh 25.8 million guaranteed for participation and KSh 58.1 million for reaching the quarterfinals.
Should Harambee Stars advance further, the financial stakes will rise significantly: KSh 70 million for a semifinal spot, KSh 90.4 million for third place, KSh 155 million for finishing as runners-up, and KSh 452.2 million for winning the championship.
With these rewards on the line, coupled with their recent performances, the Harambee Stars will head into the Zambia clash with confidence and motivation. The match at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, is set to be a high-stakes encounter, as Kenya aims to continue its fairytale run in CHAN 2024 and edge closer to making history.
