In a heartening show of commitment to the nation’s athletes, President Dr. William Ruto of Kenya has reaffirmed his support for the national soccer team, Harambee Stars, by facilitating affordable housing options for the players and their families. This initiative comes after the team’s commendable journey in the TotalEnergies CAF Africations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024, co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
The Harambee Stars, fueled by dreams of glory, faced a tough bout in the quarter-finals, ultimately falling to Madagascar in a nail-biting penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in regulation and extra time.
Despite their exit from the tournament, the President’s promise to assist the team remains steadfast, showcasing his dedication to uplifting sports in Kenya.
Football Kenya Federation Presider Hussein Mohamed
During a gathering at the State House with members of the sports fraternity, President Ruto addressed the players with encouraging words.
“To the boys in Arambestas, I know that you would have wanted to own a home, but I believe you still will have to own a home,” he stated.
Initially, he had pledged two-bedroom houses for the team if they advanced to the semi-finals. However, in light of their determination and effort, he announced that the government would still support the players in acquiring homes of their choice, covering 50% of the cost.
Each two-bedroom home, valued at two million shillings, will see the government contribute one million shillings, easing the financial burden on the players.
Harambee Stars team that participated in CHAN2024 at State House.
“You can choose a house in any town you like—Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret, or Nakuru. We are developing housing in 200 sites across Kenya, providing ample options,” President Ruto assured the athletes.
Emphasizing the importance of perseverance, President Ruto encouraged the young stars to continue pushing their limits.
The President of Kenya Dr. William Ruto with Harambee Stars at their training ground.
“I want to tell all our sportsmen and women: keep pushing the boundaries. Keep breaking records. You have our support and our prayers. The government of Kenya stands right behind you,” he concluded, inspiring hope and determination among the players.
As the Harambee Stars reflect on their journey and prepare for future challenges, the government’s commitment to supporting sports in Kenya shines a light on the potential for a brighter athletic future in the country.
