The Kenya Fans Association (KFA) has extended heartfelt appreciation to President William Ruto for his incentives and motivation to the Harambee Stars team during the ongoing CHAN 2024 tournament in East Africa.
On Monday August 11, 2025, President Ruto said a win against Zambia next Sunday will earn each player Ksh2.5 million.
If they triumph in the quarter-finals, each Harambee Stars player will be gifted Ksh1 million and a two-bedroom affordable housing unit in a location of their choice.
The players carried Ksh1 million each after winning opening match against Democratic Republic of Congo and another Ksh500, 000 each following a draw with Angola.
They each won another Ksh1 million each after beating the tournament’s favourite team Morocco on Sunday at The Kasarani Stadium.
Shem Okottah, Chairman of the Kenya Fans Association (KFA) noted that the President’s commitment continues to inspire both players and fans.
Okottah issued a strong call to action following repeated challenges faced by supporters during the ongoing TotalEnergies CHAN 2024 tournament and recent home fixtures involving the Harambee Stars.
Ticketing Transparency
Okottah called for an immediate explanation from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) over the ticketing controversy in which CHAN 2024 match tickets appeared to sell out before being officially released to the public.
“Fans are the lifeblood of the game. They deserve a transparent process, fair access to tickets, and clear communication on availability,” he said.
Crowd Management Concerns
During Kenya’s most recent home match, serious operational failures were observed including slow ticket verification causing long queues, too few entry points, creating dangerous congestion and the use of tear gas by police, triggering panic; Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) on crutches fell and sustained injuries in the chaos.
Accessibility Gaps
Okottah stressed the urgent need to make stadiums fully inclusive, citing no ramps or clear pathways for PWDs, lack of designated seating or dedicated entry points and no proper evacuation plan.
“These gaps not only exclude loyal fans with disabilities but also expose them to unnecessary risk,” he said.
KFA-Led Solutions
The Kenya Fans Association is taking proactive steps to improve the matchday experience including advanced talks with Nairobi County Government to set up official fan zones to discourage non-ticket holders from crowding around Kasarani Stadium on matchdays.
KFA is also offering trained volunteers to assist stadium officials in making the spectator experience safe, smooth, and memorable and providing expert insights to CAF, FKF, and local organizers on how to salvage Kenya’s football reputation for the remainder of CHAN 2024.
Broader Context & Commitment
Kenya’s co-hosting of CHAN 2024 alongside Uganda and Tanzania is a historic opportunity to showcase East Africa’s football passion.
KFA said it remains committed to partnering with CAF, FKF, and regional counterparts to improve crowd management systems, ensure stadium accessibility for all fans and promote family-friendly and inclusive matchday environments.
“This is our moment to show the world that Kenya can host a safe, world-class tournament where fans feel respected and valued. Football should unite, inspire, and bring joy – not endanger or exclude,” Okottah said while applauding the Harambee Stars for their exceptional performance under the leadership of Coach and Team Manager Benni McCarthy.
By
Timothy Makokha
