Ruto pledges housing support for Harambee Stars, calls for strong team ahead of 2027 AFCON

President William Ruto has pledged to ease the housing journey for Harambee Stars players while challenging the team’s management to begin early preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Kenya will co-host alongside Uganda and Tanzania.

Speaking at State House, Nairobi on Thursday, the President announced that each Harambee Stars player will receive a Ksh.1 million grant to cover half the cost of a two-bedroom house under the government’s Affordable Housing Programme. He said the initiative is not only a reward for the team’s sacrifices on the pitch but also an investment in their dignity and stability beyond their playing years.

“Our players make immense sacrifices to represent the country. It is only fair that we support them not just during their careers, but also in securing dignity and stability for their families,” Ruto noted.

At the same event, the President urged the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and the Harambee Stars technical bench to focus on building a formidable squad capable of inspiring the nation during the 2027 AFCON. He stressed the importance of early planning, talent scouting and youth development to ensure Kenya fields a competitive team.

“The time to prepare is now. We must put in place a strong technical team, scout for the best talent across the country and build a squad that will not only compete but also inspire Kenyans during the 2027 AFCON,” Ruto said.

Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania secured the hosting rights for the continental showpiece in September 2023, marking the first time the tournament will be staged in East Africa.

With just under two years to go, Kenya has embarked on infrastructure upgrades, including the renovation of Nyayo and Kasarani stadia, as well as the construction of new sports facilities in line with CAF standards.

The FKF, on its part, has promised to roll out grassroots football programmes to expand the pool of talent while ensuring Harambee Stars benefit from enhanced technical support, modern training facilities, and more international friendlies in the lead-up to the tournament.

With Kenya set to qualify automatically as a co-host, expectations are high that Harambee Stars will rise to the occasion and deliver a memorable performance on home soil. Ruto underscored that success in 2027 will be about more than just football, but also about national pride, regional unity and Kenya’s ability to shine on the continental stage.

“This is about more than just the game. Harambee Stars must be at the centre of our vision to showcase Kenya’s pride and potential,” the President affirmed.