Ruto Promises Special Thank-You Package to Harambee Stars After CHAN Exit

Ruto Promises Special Thank-You Package to Harambee Stars After CHAN Exit

The Harambee Stars may have bowed out of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), but the nation’s pride in them has only grown stronger.

Ruto’s Promise to the Stars

President William Ruto has promised the national team an additional thank-you package to recognize their heroic performance.

Speaking after Kenya’s quarter-final exit on Friday, August 22, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki conveyed the President’s message directly to the players.

“Forget about the motivation and the other things in between, the President has said he wants to build on what you have brought to our country — the honour, unity, and the pride. He will be reaching out to you through the leadership and the Ministry to give you a thank you,” Kindiki said.

The President, who is currently in Japan, later issued a heartfelt statement.

“We had a remarkable run. Harambee Stars have silenced doubters, lifted the spirit of a nation, and reminded us that when Kenyans play with courage, confidence, and determination, nothing is impossible,” Ruto said.

Leaders Shower Praise

Despite the heartbreak, Kenyan leaders united in congratulating the team for their resilience and spirit.

ODM leader Raila Odinga led the praise with warm words.

“Hongera Harambee Stars for a good display of football. You’ve managed to unite and make Kenya proud of you,” Raila said.

Deputy President Kindiki also applauded the team, assuring them their efforts would never be forgotten.

“We congratulate you on behalf of all the fans. Although we have lost, I can assure you that you have made history. We have not had such pride as we have with you today,” he declared.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya joined in, describing the Stars as an inspiration.

“Though the journey ends here, you walk away as winners, proving our resilience, our heart, and our unyielding belief that we belong at the very top. This moment is not an ending, but the beginning of a brighter future for Kenyan football,” Mvurya stated.

Nation Stands Proud

Other leaders, including Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, also congratulated the team. They reminded the players that Kenya stands solidly behind them.

Meanwhile, President Ruto urged fans to keep filling the stadiums as Kenya continues to co-host the tournament.

“Though we exit the tournament, we remain the proud co-hosts of the historic Pamoja CHAN. Let us continue to fill Kasarani with cheer, energy, pride, and love for the game — all the way to the final whistle,” Ruto urged.

For Kenya, this CHAN exit was not the end. Instead, it was a powerful reminder that unity, resilience, and determination can ignite a nation’s spirit.

ALSO READ: Heartbreak for Kenyans as Harambee Stars Bows Out of CHAN 2024

Ruto Promises Special Thank-You Package to Harambee Stars After CHAN Exit