Harambee Stars eye Sh1 billion windfall for CHAN glory

National football team Harambee Stars at the Kasarani Stadium during a past training session. [Harambee Stars, X]

Kenya's national football team, Harambee Stars, could walk away with a staggering Sh1 billion in bonuses if they win the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), following a fresh pledge by former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko.

On Sunday, Sonko announced he would personally donate Sh400 million to the team should they clinch the CHAN title, an amount that adds to the Sh600 million bonus promised by President William Ruto just a day earlier.

"If they win the CHAN tournament, I will donate my personal contribution of Sh400 million. I don't give false promises. I have been supporting the national team from way back," said Sonko via his social media platforms.

Sonko also challenged fellow leaders to step up and support the team, arguing that such gestures would boost the players' morale as they chase continental glory.

Go Go Harambee stars. ONE BILLION (KSHS. 1,000,000,000/=) for you. I know you can make it. pic.twitter.com/GpsHyO7Khp

- Mike Sonko (@MikeSonko) August 3, 2025

President Ruto had earlier raised the stakes by tripling the performance bonus initially set by the Ministry of Sports.

"I am aware that the performance bonus payment plan that had been set by the Sports Cabinet Secretary was to bring your total winnings to Sh200 million. I have decided to triple that figure," Ruto told the players.