Former Nairobi Governor Mike Mbuvi Sonko has once again thrown his weight and his wallet behind Kenyan sports, pledging a whopping KSh400 million to the national football team, Harambee Stars, as they prepare for the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Speaking in Nairobi in his Upperhill office, Sonko applauded President William Ruto for promising KSh600 million to the team if they bring home the CHAN trophy, bringing the total financial motivation for the squad to KSh1 billion.
“I want to commend the President for motivating our national team by promising them KSh600 million if they win the CHAN tournament,” said Sonko. “In the spirit of supporting the good course of our President and motivating the team, I will be giving them KSh400 million.”
Sonko was quick to dismiss any talk of competition with the President.
“This is not to compete with the President — it is wrong and unacceptable. I just want to support him and give this national team all the reason to get the job done.”
The flamboyant politician, known for his extravagant philanthropic acts and deep love for sports, stressed that this wasn’t just empty talk:
“This is not the first time I’m doing it. I have done it before. I have promised money and delivered. I have never promised and failed to deliver — this is not a joke, it’s a promise and I will deliver.”
Sonko’s bold pledge is not without precedent. In 2017, he famously rewarded Harambee Stars with cash prizes and incentives after they qualified for the CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup final — and eventually went on to win it. True to his word, he handed out monetary awards to the team members, fulfilling a promise made live on national TV.
He has also supported other sporting disciplines. In 2021, he funded the national women’s boxing team, covering travel, training gear, and allowances when the government’s support was delayed. The team went on to perform impressively in the African Boxing Championships in Brazzaville.
Sonko has previously sponsored individual athletes as well, including Paralympic runners and slum-based youth football clubs, often stepping in when others would not.
With the backing of both President Ruto and Sonko, Harambee Stars now have what the former governor called a “once-in-a-lifetime” chance to bring glory home.
“Harambee Stars now have Sh1 billion. They have the support of our President, myself, and Kenyans. It’s your chance to do it.”
With financial incentives reaching historic highs, all eyes are now on the national team to match the off-pitch generosity with on-pitch results.
