The Harambee Starlets have received a Sh10 million reward from President William Ruto after their 3–1 victory over The Gambia in the first leg of the final round of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers at Nyayo Stadium.
The win boosted Kenya’s hopes of securing a return to the continental competition for the first time since their maiden appearance in 2016.
Before the match, Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi, who represented the President, delivered a goodwill message that included an initial Sh5 million token and a promise to settle all player allowances.
“He directed that I pay and clear your allowances, so the allowances will be cleared,” Mwangi told the players. “He is very much aware that today we are having a very important game, and since he has not had an opportunity to come and celebrate with you in the previous matches, he has sent me with Sh5 million. He knows that you are going to win, and since you are going to win, he is going to give you Sh5 million more.”
Ruto also pledged a Sh1 million reward for each player should the team win the return leg and qualify for WAFCON 2026.
The decisive second leg will be played on Tuesday at Stade Lat Dior in Thies, Senegal, as The Gambia does not have a stadium that meets the Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards. A draw or victory will guarantee Kenya a place in next year’s continental tournament.
