President William Ruto has promised to attend the final of the upcoming U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament in Egypt—on one condition: that Kenya’s Rising Stars make it all the way.
The President made the pledge on Tuesday morning during a flag-off ceremony at State House, Nairobi, as he officially sent off the national U20 team ahead of their final training camp in Morocco.
Kenya has been placed in a challenging Group B, where they will face off against African heavyweights Morocco, Tunisia, and Nigeria.
While addressing the players, President Ruto acknowledged the tough competition awaiting them but expressed unwavering confidence in their ability to rise to the occasion. His message to the team was both motivational and personal:
“I know you’re heading to Egypt, and I understand the assignment is tough. But if you qualify for the final, I’ll be there. Make me come to the finals of AFCON. Just get there — I’ll be in the stands cheering you on.”
He reassured the squad of the government’s full support throughout their campaign and encouraged them to represent the country with pride:
“You have the full support of the government of Kenya — and my support as well. Thank you, and go make us proud. Make the country proud.”
President Ruto also took the opportunity to commend the wealth of football talent in the country and reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to developing sports infrastructure to support young athletes.
“We have so much talent in this country. That’s why we’re investing in facilities like the world-class Talanta Sports City. We are committed to raising the standards of football across the board.”
The Rising Stars are scheduled to depart for Morocco on Wednesday for their final phase of preparation before heading to Egypt for the continental tournament.
