By Aoma Keziah,
Kenya’s Harambee Stars are enjoying one of their brightest football moments in decades, after qualifying for the quarter-finals of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN). Topping Group A with ten points, the national side has delivered its most significant continental success since the 1987 All-Africa Games.
Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Salim Mvurya, has led the nation in celebrating the team’s achievement, praising the players not only for their results on the pitch but also for the unity and pride they have inspired across the country.
“The Harambee Stars have reminded us of the power of sport to bring people together. They faced seasoned opponents, carried the doubts of critics, but responded with courage, belief and resilience,” he stated.
Kenya’s journey through what many dubbed the “group of death” has surprised continental observers. Match after match, the team defied expectations, drawing strength from a wave of support led by President William Ruto’s encouragement and the passion of Kenyan fans.
The clash with Zambia at Kasarani became a spectacle of colour and sound, with more than 26,000 supporters in the stadium and over 50,000 others following the game at official fan zones in Nairobi. Chants, songs and waves of cheering marked what Mvurya described as “a true festival of national unity.”
To manage the unprecedented turnout, the Ministry of Sports worked with the County Government of Nairobi, Football Kenya Federation, Local Organizing Committee, National Police Service and private partners to set up ten official fan zones. These included Uhuru Park, Jacaranda Grounds, Dandora Stadium, Utalii Sports Grounds and others spread across the city. The move helped decongest the Kasarani venue and gave thousands of fans a safe and festive viewing experience.
“I am proud to note that both in Kasarani and across the fan zones, the celebrations were orderly, dignified and safe. This is proof that Kenya can host football at world-class standards,” Mvurya remarked.
With the Harambee Stars now set to face Madagascar in the quarter-finals, the Sports Cabinet Secretary has called on fans to continue rallying behind the team, urging ticket holders to fill the stadium while encouraging others to gather at the designated viewing areas.
“As we step into the next stage, let us show once again the spirit of Kenya. Together, we win,” the Sports Cabinet Secretary urged.
Mt Kenya Times