Wetang’ula: CHAN was just the beginning for Harambee Stars
By Cy Muganda, August 23, 2025National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has praised Harambee Stars for their spirited showing at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), saying their campaign should be seen as the foundation for greater success in the coming years.
In a statement posted on his X account on August 22, 2025, Wetang’ula noted that despite the team’s painful exit in the quarter-finals after a 4-3 penalty loss to Madagascar, the players had given Kenyans every reason to be proud.
“Team Kenya has displayed great performance and resilience in the CHAN 2024 tournaments, depicting the true Kenyan spirit,” he wrote.
“Today was just but a bad day in the office for the Harambee Stars after a 4-3 upset by Madagascar in the post-match penalties. As debutants in the Championship and coming from the group of death, the boys never disappointed, giving their well-drilled rivals a run for their money to emerge top in the group,” he reiterated.
AFCON 2027
Wetang’ula noted that the team’s achievement in their maiden CHAN appearance should inspire confidence as they turn their focus toward the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027.
“It’s a painful quarter-final exit, but as a country we are proud of Harambee Stars’ starling performance. We exit the pitch with our heads held high, cognisance of the fact that CHAN has been our springboard as we prepare for AFCON in 2027,” he said.
“Hongera Harambee Stars! We live to fight another day,” the Speaker concluded.
Lauding Stars
Wetang’ula’s comments reflect a broader sentiment among leaders praising Harambee Stars despite their tournament exit.
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.
In a statement posted on his X account on the same day, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua expressed solidarity with the national team while celebrating their achievement of reaching the quarter-finals.
“Our Stars, we’ve got your back. We stand with you every step of the way,” Gachagua stated.
The former Deputy President praised 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.