The Head of State made a surprise morning appearance at the stadium, where he put on football boots and joined the Harambee Stars on the pitch ahead of their high-stakes clash.
In a show of national pride, he kicked a ball and rallied Kenyans to support the team as they began their Group A journey.
“CHAN 2024 is here, and Harambee Stars are ready to shine. Let us come together and support our boys as they fight for glory,” President Ruto said.
“When the national team wins, Kenya wins.”
Other leaders were also present at the stadium, standing in solidarity with the national team.
Among them was Central Organisation of Trade Unions (Cotu) Secretary General Francis Atwoli, who confirmed his attendance on X, saying, “Already at Kasarani Moi International Sports Centre.”
Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano showed up in a customised Harambee Stars jersey with her name “Rebecca” emblazoned on the back, sharing a simple message: “CHAN in Kenya.”
Tourism CS Rebecca Miano at Kasarani Stadium for the Kenya-DRC match on August 3, 2025 / REBECCA MIANO XFormer Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko was also spotted at the stadium, calling on Kenyans to turn out in large numbers to support the national team.
Kenya’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office in Nairobi (UNON) and former Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba said he had spoken to Harambee Stars captain Aboud Omar on Sunday morning to offer words of encouragement.
“I have loads of confidence in our boys to fly our flag highest, and to unite all Kenyan people in national pride. Let’s go Kenya!”
The Group A match against two-time CHAN champions DR Congo marks Kenya’s long-awaited return to the continental football stage, and signals the beginning of what fans hope will be a historic campaign for the Harambee Stars.
