President Ruto rewards Harambee Stars players Sh1 million each after win over DRC Congo

Jubilation swept through the Harambee Stars camp after their triumphant start to the CHAN 2024 tournament at Moi Sports Centre Kasarani not only for their victory on the pitch but also for the hefty reward that followed.

True to his word, President William Ruto delivered on his promise, awarding each player Sh1 million following their opening game win.

In a surprise locker room visit filled with camaraderie, laughter, and national pride, President Ruto personally congratulated the team after their 1-0 victory, made possible by a stunning goal from Austin Odhiambo.

"Pongezi sana," Ruto told the players. "I just came to tell you: keep up. This is just a good beginning - you did very well."

Turning to the match-winner, he quipped in Swahili:

"Thank you bwana Odhis kwa kutupatia bao la kipekee. Wapi huyo muungwana? Austin, ako wapi? Ako area? Very good."

The room erupted in cheers as the President warmly embraced Austin, who had etched his name into Kenya's footballing folklore with his decisive goal.

With a smile, Ruto confirmed the long-awaited news:

"Si sasa kila mtu ako na milioni moja tayari?"

The cheers turned into laughter and applause as the President directed Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed to organize the funds:

"Sasa huyu muungwana, wapi President wa FKF - kesho asubuhi unipitie, uchukue mali ya hawa watu!"

The light-hearted moment did not overshadow the seriousness of the President's message. He reminded the team that Kenya stood behind them fully:

"Sasa mnajua Wednesday ndio game yenyewe, please be strong mkae ngangari, sisi wote tuko na nyinyi, but you did a wonderful job,"

He added that he had noticed some early nerves during the match:

"Niliona kidogo pale tukianza, mlitense kidogo mkaona eh, kitaumana ama niaje?"

But he was full of praise for how the team composed themselves and rose to the occasion.

President Ruto's performance-based reward structure is ambitious and motivational:

President William Ruto has unveiled a bold and unprecedented incentive package for the Harambee Stars as they compete in CHAN 2024.

Each player will receive Sh1 million for every match won, while a draw will earn each of them Sh500,000.

In what could be the most significant financial boost in the team's history, the President further pledged a whopping Sh600 million to be shared among the team should they reach the final of the tournament.