Harambee Stars goalkeeper Farouk Shikhalo has expressed heartfelt gratitude to President William Ruto for his unwavering support during the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), crediting him for inspiring the team’s impressive performance.
According to Shikhalo, the President’s close involvement and genuine encouragement played a major role in uplifting the morale of the players. He noted that Ruto’s surprise visits to training sessions and the dressing room, coupled with his words of motivation, created a deep sense of unity and pride among the squad. The goalkeeper emphasized that Ruto’s commitment went beyond politics, describing it as a display of true Kenyan spirit and belief in the nation’s sporting potential.
Shikhalo recalled several moments when the President personally interacted with players, offering reassurance and celebrating their efforts. Such gestures, he said, gave the team confidence and reminded them that their hard work was being recognized at the highest level. The sense of national pride that followed strengthened their resolve to represent Kenya with dignity and determination.
The Harambee Stars’ improved performance at CHAN 2024 has revived optimism within Kenya’s football community. After years marked by administrative setbacks, financial challenges, and limited international exposure, the team’s resurgence signaled a promising new era for the sport. Many observers believe that the government’s visible involvement and investment have helped restore faith and accountability within the football fraternity.
Shikhalo credited part of this success to the renewed relationship between players and leadership, saying that when players feel supported, they are inspired to perform at their best. He urged continued collaboration between the government, sports federations, and private sponsors to maintain this positive momentum and ensure that Kenyan football continues to thrive on the regional and continental stage.
Looking ahead, the goalkeeper expressed optimism that the spirit of unity and motivation witnessed during CHAN will define the next chapter of Kenyan football. With greater belief, discipline, and leadership support, Shikhalo believes the Harambee Stars are well-positioned to compete at higher levels and bring more pride to the nation.
In his view, this period marks a turning point — one where Kenyan football stands on the foundation of unity, renewed energy, and national pride.
