Kenya is set to pocket Sh58 million after bowing out of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) at the quarter-final stage, following a heartbreaking penalty shootout loss to Madagascar.
The Harambee Stars drew 1-1 in regular and extra time but were edged out 4-3 on penalties, putting an end to their spirited run.
The team’s run, however, has been hailed as one of the country’s most spirited CHAN outings, raising hopes about the future of home-based football.
The team’s campaign began with a hard-fought 1-0 win over DR Congo, setting the tone for a solid group-stage performance.
Kenya followed that up with a 1-1 draw against Angola, before stunning 2020 champions Morocco 1-0 in a disciplined display.
In their final group match, the Stars edged Zambia 1-0, topping the pool unbeaten with three wins and a draw, while conceding just one goal in four matches.
In the quarter-final clash with Madagascar, Kenya once again showed resilience, holding their opponents to a 1-1 draw across 120 minutes.
However, their campaign came to a cruel end in the penalty shootout, where Madagascar prevailed 4-3.
Despite the exit, the team’s progress to the last eight was celebrated as a major step forward for Kenyan football.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) recently announced a 75 percent increase in prize money for CHAN 2024, with the total purse growing by 32 per cent compared to the previous edition.
While Kenya will bank Sh58 million for reaching the quarter finalists, the four semi-finalists are guaranteed at least Sh77 million.
The third-place finisher will pocket Sh90 million, the runners-up will take home Sh155 million, and the champions will walk away with a whopping Sh453 million, underscoring CAF’s drive to elevate the tournament’s profile.
Even teams eliminated in the group stage benefited.
Those finishing third in their groups earned Sh39 million, while fourth and fifth-placed sides went home with Sh26 million each.
For Kenya, the financial windfall provides a timely boost that many hope will be reinvested into strengthening the domestic league and nurturing grassroots talent.
Though the penalty heartbreak against Madagascar dashed hopes of a historic semi-final berth, Kenya’s spirited performances—marked by discipline, resilience, and flashes of attacking brilliance have renewed optimism.
With Sh58 million to show for their efforts and a rising profile in continental football, the Harambee Stars now have a strong foundation to build on ahead of upcoming regional and global qualifiers.
