Kenyan rapper and activist Henry Ohanga, popularly known as Octopizzo, has lauded the Harambee Stars for their spirited display at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.

Taking to his official X account on Friday, August 22, 2025, Octopizzo urged for greater investment in sports to unlock the nation’s full potential.

He congratulated the national team for showcasing “true mastery on the field”, noting that their performance was a powerful reminder of what Kenyan athletes can achieve when talent is properly nurtured and supported.

“Congratulations to the @Harambee__Stars for displaying true mastery on the field. Your performance is a reminder of the immense potential that lies in our athletes when talent is nurtured and supported. This is not just about football; it’s a strong call for greater investment in sports and structured talent management to empower the next generation. Well done, Stars, you’ve made Kenya proud,” Octopizzo stated.

Better structures

Octopizzo’s remarks echo the growing calls from sports leaders, fans, and policymakers for increased funding and better structures in Kenyan football and other disciplines.

The Harambee Stars bowed out of the tournament at the quarter-final stage on Friday, August 2025, evening, after a tense penalty shootout defeat to Madagascar following a 1-1 draw.

However, their resilience and unity throughout the tournament won admiration both at home and across the continent.

Ruto on Harambee Stars

President William Ruto has praised the Harambee Stars for their spirited performance, despite bowing out.

In a statement shared via his official X account following the heartbreaking loss, Ruto said the team had “silenced doubters, lifted the spirit of a nation, and reminded us that when Kenyans play with courage, confidence, and determination, nothing is impossible.”

Kenya pushed Madagascar to the very limit, with the match ending in a 1-1 draw before the Stars were edged out in the lottery of penalties. But the Head of State insisted there was no dishonour in the manner of their exit.

“We had a remarkable run. Harambee Stars have silenced doubters, lifted the spirit of a nation, and reminded us that when Kenyans play with courage, confidence, and determination, nothing is impossible. Yes, we bowed out at the quarter-finals — but we fought valiantly to the very end. To lose in the lottery of penalties is no dishonour; to push the contest to such a finish is itself a badge of greatness,” Ruto stated.