The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has credited Harambee Stars’ strong performance at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) to a combination of financial incentives and personal motivation from President William Ruto.
FKF President Hussein Mohammed said that beyond technical preparation, the players’ morale has been lifted by the President’s consistent support, both material and emotional.
Speaking after the Stars’ latest victory against Zambia, Mohammed noted that the President’s visits to the national team, in dressing rooms, training camps, and hotels, have motivated the players.
“We have to give the President all the flowers because visiting the team every time motivates them. Every game, he goes to the dressing room and inspires them. He now knows them by name, which has built an amazing friendship with the players,” Mohammed said.
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He added that the relationship goes deeper than football, with Ruto discussing players’ welfare and even engaging in conversations about their housing needs.
The Head of State has pledged two-bedroom apartments to the team if they win the quarterfinals against Madagascar on August 22, a promise the players say has fueled their determination.
“There are other things you may not be aware of that they are gaining in their personal lives courtesy of the President. Over 60 percent of the success of the team is directly related to his motivation and incentives,” Mohammed said.
“Nobody can contradict his promise. He has been giving out rewards immediately after the game. I have personally witnessed him fulfilling his pledges.”
Mohammed explained that the promise of rewards and Ruto’s presence around the team have transformed the national side’s mentality.
“The revenue incentives are key. The players are looking forward to delivering in this CHAN. I think there is no bigger motivator than monetary reward,” he said.
“Harambee Stars are not only eyeing continental glory but also setting a new standard for how political goodwill and personal engagement can fuel sporting success.”
Former Harambee Stars captain Dennis Oliech echoed the federation’s view, noting that motivation is as mental as it is physical.
“Motivation starts in the mind and goes down to the feet. They don’t get tired, and the motivation keeps them going,” he said.
Mohammed admitted that the pressure on the national team is immense, with the entire country expecting victories. He said even the red cards picked up in recent matches reflect the players’ “overzealous” energy to prove themselves.
“There is passion, but with incentives like a two-bedroom apartment on the line, fatigue goes away. I keep insisting we must also give them time to rest after matches because the pressure increases after every win. Still, the motivation is what drives them to push harder,” he explained.
Team captain Aboud Omar, speaking on behalf of the players after their win against Zambia, thanked President Ruto and Kenyans for their support.
“As a team, we thank you for standing with us. You promised us, and we assure you, this trophy will remain here,” Omar said.