Harambee Stars will receive not only millions in cash but also affordable housing units if they excel at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), President William Ruto has announced.

Speaking on Monday after meeting the team at the Pullman Hotel in Nairobi’s Upper Hill, Ruto praised the national side for their historic performance and unveiled a package of incentives to inspire them ahead of the remaining fixtures.

The President confirmed that each player and technical team member has already been awarded Sh1 million for their victory over Morocco. He pledged a further Sh2.5 million for every player if Kenya defeats Zambia in their upcoming Group A match on Sunday, August 17.

Beyond cash rewards, Ruto promised long-term benefits through the government’s affordable housing programme. If Harambee Stars advance past the quarter-finals, each player will receive Sh1 million and a two-bedroom house.

Winning the semi-finals will earn them an additional Sh1 million and a three-bedroom house in a location of their choice.

Reflecting on Kenya’s journey to hosting CHAN, Ruto recalled earlier failed bids in 1996 and 2018, crediting belief and determination for this year’s success.

“When I asked Ababu Namwamba, the then Minister for Sports, to pursue hosting CHAN, many doubted Kenya’s chances. We tried in 1996 and 2018 but did not succeed. But I believed it was doable,” he said.

“There are people who do not believe, but we believe Kenya can. We have not only hosted CHAN but are also witnessing a historic achievement by our boys,” he added.

He urged the team and the nation to remain united and reject divisive politics. “You guys are making our nation very proud. If we believe in ourselves and refuse to let negativity, hate, or ethnicity divide us, Kenya will become the great country we always wanted it to be,” Ruto said.

Expressing confidence in Kenya’s prospects, the President told the players that the country is firmly behind them. “We play in the League of Champions. The government and the people of Kenya stand behind you, praying that this time we can win CHAN because it is within close reach,” he said.

The meeting also marked a celebration of Kenya’s historic qualification for the knockout stages on their CHAN debut, following their 1-0 win over Morocco.

Harambee Stars currently lead Group A with seven points from three matches, remaining unbeaten in the tournament.

Angola is second with four points, Morocco and the Democratic Republic of Congo have three each, while Zambia is bottom with no points.

Kenya will face Zambia in their final group match on Sunday as they aim to keep their momentum and secure continental glory.