Wanga hails Kenyan spirit, urges Harambee Stars to bounce back
By Cy Muganda, August 23, 2025Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has called on Kenyans to continue rallying behind Harambee Stars, saying the team’s defeat to Madagascar in the CHAN quarterfinal clash should serve as motivation for a stronger comeback.
In a statement shared on her X account on Friday, August 22, 2025, Wanga described the result as painful but insisted that the dream of building a competitive national team remains alive.
“A setback is just a setup for a comeback. This loss hurts, but the dream is alive. Let’s build from this!” she wrote.
She encouraged the players to keep their heads up and keep working towards future success, urging Kenyans to maintain faith in the team.
“Onward, Harambee Stars! God bless Kenya,” she stated.
The governor also praised the residents of Homa Bay for their passionate show of support for the national team, noting that such unity reflects the true spirit of Kenya.
“Shout-out to Homa Bay for an incredible show of support! That’s the Kenyan spirit we need,” Wanga added.
Lauding Stars
Her comments add to a long list of messages from leaders lauding Harambee stars despite their tournament exit.
In a statement posted on his X account on Friday, August 22, 2025, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua expressed solidarity with the national team while celebrating their achievement of reaching the last eight.
“Our Stars, we’ve got your back. We stand with you every step of the way,” Gachagua stated.
The former Deputy President lauded the team’s resilience and determination, noting that their performance had inspired the nation.
“You fought with spirit and determination to elevate Kenya’s football to new heights, pushing through to the CHAN quarter-finals. Your resilience and passion inspire us all. Keep shining and making us proud!” Gachagua added.
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei, in a statement posted on his X account on Friday, August 22, 2025, also expressed pride in the national team’s campaign while encouraging them to channel their efforts toward future competitions.
“Exceptional play by HarambeeStars with a master class performance. We are proud of you, you gave it all for the love of Kenya,” Cherargei stated.
The Senator emphasised that despite the tournament exit, the team had exceeded expectations and elevated Kenya’s football profile internationally.
“You have outperformed yourselves, you have put Kenya on the world map of Football,” he stated.