Football Kenya Federation President Hussein Mohammed has thanked President William Ruto for honouring his Ksh10 million pledge to the national senior women’s team, Harambee Starlets, in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier win against The Gambia.

Kenya came from behind to claim a commanding 3-1 first-leg win against the West Africans on Friday, October 24, 2025, at the Nyayo Stadium, shortly after the Head of State had promised the team cash rewards if they had won the tie.

Cash rewards

”Grateful to H.E. President William Samoei Ruto for his generous support to the Harambee Starlets ahead of their WAFCON qualifier against The Gambia this afternoon at Nyayo Stadium. The President has already extended Ksh5 million today to motivate the team and further promised Ksh5 million for a home win, Ksh 2.5 million for a draw, Ksh1 million each if they win away and qualify, and Ksh500,000 each if they draw away and qualify. Your support continues to inspire confidence and belief in our women’s football,” the FKF boss said.

Speaking during the English Premier League trophy tour earlier at the State House, Nairobi, Hussein Mohammed had also extended his gratitude to President Ruto and the government of Kenya for their steadfast support towards the growth and development of football in our country. Hussein said that Kenya is now beginning to reap the rewards of this investment in football.

Ruto’s goodies

In his message to Harambee Starlets after thrashing The Gambia at home, President William Ruto said, ”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. This victory speaks to the discipline, talent, and determination of our women’s footballers and the steadfast leadership of the technical bench,” the Head of State added.

”You have made Kenya proud and reaffirmed our nation’s growing strength in women’s sports. 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,” he said.

Meanwhile, Harambee Stars jetted out of the country on Saturday morning, October 25, 2025, for their return leg against Gambia on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, in Senegal. The team is on the verge of returning to WAFCON after a 9-year absence.