The government has made good on its promise, disbursing a total of KSh42 million to the Harambee Stars following their crucial 1-0 victory against the Democratic Republic of Congo in the opening game of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) on Sunday.

The announcement was made by State House spokesperson Hussein Mohammed, who confirmed that President William Ruto had fulfilled his commitment to the national team.

The reward structure, which was the subject of much speculation, was clarified to include every member of the squad and technical bench.

“President William Ruto has fulfilled his commitment to pay KSh1 million each to all 27 Harambee Stars players and 15 members of the technical bench, a total of KSh42 million, following the national team’s 1-0 win over the DRC on Sunday,” the official statement read.

This significant financial boost, which averages KSh1 million per person, comes after President Ruto’s pledge during a breakfast meeting with the team, where he outlined a tiered reward system for their performance in the tournament.

The President had promised a whopping KSh600 million for a CHAN victory, with additional payouts for reaching the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and finals.

The decisive goal in the match against the DRC was scored by Gor Mahia playmaker Austine Odhiambo, who found the back of the net with a lovely solo effort just before half-time.

The victory was significantly boosted by the massive home support, with tens of thousands of fans flocking to the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, to cheer on the national team.

The government’s gesture highlights the high stakes of the tournament. The incentives offered to the Harambee Stars are notably higher than those of co-hosts Uganda (KSh301 million for a win) and Tanzania (KSh51 million for a win).

With the win, Kenya’s fate in the tournament is now firmly in their hands. Coach Benni McCarthy’s men will next face Angola on Thursday, August 7, before a tough encounter with Morocco on Sunday, August 10.

They will conclude their group stage matches against Zambia on August 17, with their sights set on securing a spot in the knockout rounds.

Another victory against Angola would not only solidify their position but also trigger another round of rewards from the government.

ALSO READ:2024 CHAN: Harambee Stars shift focus to Angola after home win in Group A opener