President Ruto promises to reward Harambee Starlets’ WAFCON wins with millions of shillings

President William Ruto has pledged a Ksh 10 million bonus for every match Harambee Starlets will win at the ongoing 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

The pledge was relayed to the players by Football Kenya Federation (FKF) boss Hussein Mohammed before Kenya's opening Group A fixture against tournament hosts Morocco on Sunday.

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Addressing the squad, Mohammed revealed that the government, through President Ruto, had committed to rewarding the team for every victory registered during the competition.

"From the President and the Government of Kenya, I want to assure you that for every match you win at this tournament, you will receive Ksh10 million as a token of appreciation," Mohammed told the players.

The performance-based incentive is expected to provide an added source of motivation for Beldine Odemba's charges as they seek redemption following a difficult start.

Starlets endured a difficult return to Africa's biggest women's football tournament, suffering a 4-0 defeat to hosts Morocco in their opening Group A encounter.

Kenya faces a daunting task in what many have described as one of the toughest groups at the tournament.

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Alongside Morocco,Starlets must also contend with continental heavyweights Senegal and Algeria in a fiercely competitive pool where every point could prove decisive.

Despite the opening setback, Odemba's side still has an opportunity to revive their campaign with two group matches remaining.

Victory in either fixture would not only strengthen their hopes of progressing to the knockout rounds but would also see the players benefit from the government's financial reward.

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Starlets will now shift their focus to Thursday, 30 July, when they take on Senegal in a crucial Group A clash.

With qualification hopes hanging in the balance, Kenya will be aiming to produce a spirited response and keep their dream of advancing in the tournament alive.