Ruto to gift Harambee Starlets more millions after 3-1 win over Gambia
By Kiprono Keileb, October 24, 2025President William Ruto has congratulated the Harambee Starlets for their remarkable 3-1 victory over The Gambia in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier played at Nyayo Stadium on Friday, October 24, 2025, and promised to honour his Ksh5 million pledge to the team for a win.
In a heartfelt message shared on his official X account on Friday, October 2025, President Ruto praised the team’s performance, calling it a demonstration of discipline, talent, and determination that has pushed Kenya closer to qualifying for the 2026 WAFCON tournament in Morocco.
“Hearty congratulations to our gallant Harambee Starlets for the 3-1 triumph over Gambia, a commanding performance that propels Kenya closer to qualification for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) in Morocco,” President Ruto said.
He commended both the players and the technical team for what he described as steadfast leadership and unity of purpose, saying their win has once again proven the strength of women’s football in Kenya.
“This victory speaks to the discipline, talent, and determination of our women footballers, and the steadfast leadership of the technical bench. You have made Kenya proud and reaffirmed our nation’s growing strength in women’s sports,” he added.
More money
Ruto further encouraged the Starlets to maintain the same energy and focus as they prepare for the return leg away in Banjul, assuring them of the country’s full support.
“As you prepare for the return leg, know that the entire nation stands behind you. Your success is our pride. Keep shining, keep winning, and let the spirit of Harambee continue to unite and propel our nation forward. Hongera Starlets! As promised, nitacheza kama mimi,” the President said.
Before the match, President Ruto had extended Ksh5 million to motivate the team ahead of their home fixture, as confirmed by Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed. The president also announced additional financial rewards based on the team’s performance in both legs of the qualifiers.
Ruto further promised:
Ksh5 million for a home win
Ksh2.5 million for a draw
Ksh1 million each if they win away and qualify
Ksh500,000 each if they draw away and qualify
The Starlets’ victory now puts them in a strong position heading into the return leg, needing only to maintain their lead to book a spot in the continental tournament.
President Ruto’s show of support, both moral and financial, has been widely seen as a significant boost to women’s football in Kenya, inspiring confidence and belief among the players as they continue their WAFCON qualification journey.