Celebrities and political leaders have rallied behind Harambee Stars with cash pledges and promises following the team's stellar performance in the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN).
President William Ruto has been at the forefront, promising Sh2.5 million to each player if Kenya defeated Zambia in their final Group A match on August 17, 2025.
True to his word, the President confirmed the reward after Harambee Stars sealed a 1-0 victory.
This was not his first show of generosity. After Kenya's earlier win against Morocco, Ruto awarded the team Sh42 million, honoring his pledge of Sh1 million per player.
He had also assured the players of Sh500,000 each in the event of a draw.
Celebrities also made bold promises, though not all have delivered.
Singer Bahati and his wife Diana promised Sh1 million if Harambee Stars beat Morocco. The team won 1-0, but reports suggest the pledge was never fulfilled.
In a viral Instagram video, Bahati displayed bundles of cash and vowed to personally hand it over to the players at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
"Tomorrow is a big day. We are coming with this one million at Kasarani if Harambee Stars beat Morocco. We will enter the pitch ourselves to gift the players," he declared.
Bahati further promised to gift striker Austin Odhiambo a share of the money for scoring in a previous game, insisting the cash was meant strictly for players and not officials of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).
Meanwhile, singer Iyanii pledged to throw a free concert in celebration of the team's remarkable run, while adult content creator Alicia Kanini sparked debate after congratulating Harambee Stars and promising them a "special prize" if they win the tournament.
The pledges have stirred conversation among Kenyans online, with fans applauding the support but also questioning the sincerity of celebrity promises.
