As the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 unfolds, Kenya’s national football team, the Harambee Stars, is capturing hearts and headlines in their debut campaign. Co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda from August 2 to August 30, 2025, this tournament is a historic milestone for Kenyan football. Reserved for players plying their trade in domestic leagues, CHAN offers a platform for local talent to shine on the continental stage. Under the guidance of South African coach Benni McCarthy, the Harambee Stars are proving they’re not just here to make up the numbers but to chase glory with the backing of an ecstatic home crowd.
Drawn in Group A alongside heavyweights DR Congo, Morocco, Angola, and Zambia, the Harambee Stars faced a daunting challenge dubbed the “Group of Fire.” Yet, they rose to the occasion in their opening match on August 3, 2025, at a packed Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani. Austine Odhiambo’s goal in the second minute of added time secured a 1-0 victory over two-time champions DR Congo, marking Kenya’s first-ever CHAN goal and igniting wild celebrations. The win, bolstered by Daniel Sakari’s recovery from a shaky start and goalkeeper Omondi’s heroic saves, earned each squad member a Sh1 million bonus from President William Ruto.
The atmosphere was electric, with President Ruto, Raila Odinga, and CAF president Patrick Motsepe among the dignitaries cheering from the stands. Despite ticketing issues and chaotic scenes outside the stadium, the home support proved pivotal. McCarthy praised his team’s resilience, noting their ability to overcome a nervous start against a seasoned opponent
The Stars’ momentum carried into their high-stakes clash against two-time CHAN champions Morocco on August 10. Despite playing with 10 men for nearly half the game after Chrispin Erambo’s red card, Kenya pulled off a sensational 1-0 victory. Ryan Ogam’s 40th-minute strike, a low shot into the bottom right corner, sparked delirium at Kasarani. The team’s swift counterattacks, led by Byrne Omondi and Ben Stanley, and resolute defending showcased their tactical discipline and heart. This win put Kenya on the cusp of the quarterfinals, defying expectations against a Moroccan side known for capitalizing on numerical advantages.
However, the match wasn’t without controversy. Chaos erupted outside the stadium as fans stormed gates due to long queues and ticket frustrations, highlighting organizational challenges. Inside, the electric atmosphere fueled the Stars’ performance, proving McCarthy’s belief that the Kasarani crowd could lift the team when their legs tired.
President Ruto’s unprecedented financial incentives have added extra motivation. Each player and staff member receives Sh1 million per win and Sh500,000 per draw, with a staggering Sh600 million promised for lifting the trophy. Former Nairobi governor Mike Sonko pledged an additional Sh400 million, bringing the potential reward to Sh1 billion. These bonuses, described as “life-changing” for players from the semi-professional FKF Premier League, where salaries average Sh80,000, underscore the government’s commitment to supporting local talent. The Stars’ victory over DR Congo alone netted Sh42 million, disbursed promptly through the Sports Ministry.
Beyond the financial rewards, CHAN 2024 is a platform for players to attract scouts from top African and European clubs. Former coach Jacob “Ghost” Mulee emphasized the tournament’s significance for gauging the strength of Kenya’s domestic league and preparing for AFCON 2027. Players like Austine Odhiambo and Ryan Ogam are seizing the opportunity to change their lives and make history for Kenya
With matches against Angola and Zambia looming, the Harambee Stars are well-positioned in Group A. Their next clash will test their resolve, but the home crowd’s energy and McCarthy’s tactical acumen give them a fighting chance. Kenya’s hosting of CHAN, with Kasarani set to stage the final on August 30, signals the nation’s readiness for bigger events like AFCON 2027. Fans are urged to fill the stadium, turning it into a fortress as the Stars aim to rewrite history, 38 years after their 1987 All Africa Games run ended in a final loss.