By Emily Kiende
President William Ruto has announced that each Harambee Stars player will receive government support to purchase a Ksh 2 million, two-bedroom house under the Affordable Housing Programme.
The government will contribute Ksh 1 million towards the cost, while the players will cover the remaining Ksh 1 million through a mortgage option.
The President said the mortgage will be payable over 20 years, with monthly instalments ranging between KSh 2,000 and KSh 3,000, making home ownership more accessible for the players.
“You will choose a house in a town you like,” the President said, referring to the more than 200 affordable housing sites established across the country.President Ruto made this gesture in recognition of the team’s efforts in the CHAN tournament.
President Ruto made these remarks during a lunch meeting with the Harambee Stars team in State House, Nairobi, on Thursday.
The President acknowledged the challenges faced during the tournament; however, he commended the Harambee Stars for successfully advancing to the quarter-finals.
"We are all immensely proud of the performance of the Harambee Stars in this year's Chan tournament," he said."Their dedication, discipline and resilience has not only won medals and shattered records but have also reminded us of the power of talent when it is nurtured with purpose,” he added.President Ruto commended Kenyans for their passion, pride and motivation they gave Harambee Stars during the CHAN competition.
“This demonstrated what it means when a nation stands together,” he said.Further, he urged Kenyans to carry the same motivation to propel Kenya towards greatness.
Improved rewards for sportsmen
The head of state reiterated the reforms in the sports cash reward scheme aimed at recognising and appreciating Kenyan sportsmen and sportswomen.
The revised initiative, as announced earlier, reflects a significant increase in prize amounts, with payouts having risen by over 400%.
The President announced a rise from Ksh 750,000 to Ksh 3 million for the individual Olympic gold medalist package, Ksh 500,000 to Ksh 2 million for silver and Ksh 350,000 to Ksh 1 million for the bronze medalist.
In addition, an award in team sports per athlete has increased from Ksh 100,000 to Ksh 750,000 for gold, Ksh 75,000 to Ksh 500,000 for silver and Ksh 50,000 to Ksh 375,000 for bronze.
These deliberate reforms, President Ruto noted, are aimed at recognising and rewarding champions in a manner that acknowledges their hard work and sacrifice.
President Ruto on investing in sports infrastructure
Beyond rewards, the Head of State said the government is investing heavily in sports infrastructure, from the successful hosting of CHAN, which showcased Kenya’s readiness to stage major continental events.
He further acknowledged the construction and renovation of world-class stadiums and facilities across the country that will serve communities for generations.
The head of state highlighted the government’s efforts to empower youths to monetise their skills and pursue careers in sports and in the creative economy, through the Talanta Hela initiative.
"Talent development remains central to our strategy,” he said.He announced the government has so far launched 37 constituency sports academies across the country. This move is aimed at guaranteeing every region access to structured training, mentorship and opportunity.
The President commended and called upon more partners, cooperates and sponsors to join in support of the sports men and women.
The Head of State expressed confidence in the FKF leadership to lead the football team professionally with integrity.