Kaluma urges Ruto to double Harambee Stars reward to Ksh1M each after Angola draw
By Mustafa Juma, August 8, 2025Homa Bay Town Member of Parliament (MP) Peter Kaluma has urged President William Ruto to reward Harambee Stars players with Ksh1 million each following their impressive performance against Angola in a Thursday, August 7, 2025, African Nations Championship (CHAN) Group A clash at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, that ended in a hard-fought draw.
Taking to his official X account moments after the match, Kaluma argued that the Harambee Stars boys tried by managing to hold Angola to a thrilling 1-1 draw, despite being reduced to 10 men early in the game.
Harambee Stars’ red card
According to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) lawmaker, the head of state should start with Harambee Stars midfielder Marvin Nabwire, who received a straight red card following a VAR review, when rewarding the team.
“Vijana wamejaribu! President @WilliamsRuto chapa kila player Milli! Start with the guy who was red carded – great boy!” Kaluma stated.
Ruto to honour pledge
President Ruto has since lauded the Harambee Stars for their spirited performance against Angola.
In a heartfelt message posted on his official platforms on the night of Thursday, August 7, 2025, Ruto praised the team’s resilience, calling it a true display of the Kenyan spirit.
“What a valiant display of skill and endurance by our gallant Harambee Stars! Reduced to 10 men early in the game, you stood tall, fought hard, and covered every blade of grass on the pitch to hold Angola to a commanding draw. What you displayed this evening was not just football; it is the Kenyan spirit on show for Africa and the world. Courage. Grit. Patriotism,” Ruto stated.
The head of state also made a light-hearted yet pointed reminder of a promise he had previously made to the team.
He promised to honour his pledge to the team as agreed earlier.
“You have made us proud. Hongera vijana! Na niko na deni yenu vile tulikubaliana!” the president stated.
Ruto had pledged to reward the national team handsomely throughout the CHAN campaign.
In addition to the Ksh600 million set aside for football, the President had promised Ksh1 million per player for every win and Ksh500,000 for every draw during the tournament.
He also vowed to pay Ksh60 million if the team reaches the quarterfinals and Ksh70 million for a semifinal finish.