The thrilling match was played at the Nyayo National Stadium on Friday, October 24, where the Kenyan team showed skill and determination to defeat their West African opponents.
The win brought them closer to securing a spot in the continental tournament.
Before the match, President Ruto had spoken to the team by phone, encouraging them to play their best and make the country proud. He promised to support them if they delivered good results — and he did not disappoint.
After the game, Ruto awarded the Starlets a total of KSh 10 million as a token of appreciation for their excellent performance.
According to Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, the president had initially promised KSh 5 million before the match, and an additional KSh 5 million if the team won. Had the match ended in a draw, the players would have received KSh 2.5 million.
Speaking after the game, CS Mvurya said the president’s gesture was meant to motivate the players and promote women’s football in Kenya.
“These incentives show the President’s commitment to inspire, reward, and grow Kenyan sporting talent.
The goal is to turn passion into opportunity and make Kenya a strong force in African and global football,” he stated.
Ruto also made a fresh promise to the team as they prepare for the second leg of the qualifier, which will be played in Senegal.
He pledged KSh 1 million for each player if they win the return match and qualify for the WAFCON finals, and KSh 500,000 each if they draw but still advance.
The Harambee Starlets are now determined to maintain their winning spirit as they head to Senegal. With such strong backing from the president and the country, hopes are high that Kenya will book a place in next year’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations tournament.
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