Uhuru, Ruto shower heroic Harambee Stars with goodies

Deputy President William Samoei Ruto on Monday morning promised the national football team Harambee Stars Sh.50 million if they qualify for the 2019 African Cup of Nations finals to be held in Cameroon

During a breakfast meeting with the team at his official residence in Karen, Ruto also delivered President Uhuru Kenyatta’s token of Ksh.10 million, besides his initial pledge of Sh 5million.

He also promised the team a new bus in a fortnight, all the goodies coming in the wake of their Cecafa Senior Challenge Cup victory on Sunday.

Speaking during the meeting, Ruto singled out Posta Rangers goalkeeper Patrick Matasi for his heroics in the final against Zanzibar, when he denied the islanders three spot kicks to deliver Kenya’s seventh Cecafa title.

Kenya Harambee Stars players celebrate with trophy after their victory against Zanzibar during the Cecafa Senior challenge cup final match at Kenyatta stadium in Machakos on December 17, 2017. Kenya won 3-2 on post match penaltes [Photo/Stafford Ondego/Sportpicha/CITIZEN

Kenya Harambee Stars players celebrate with trophy after their victory against Zanzibar during the Cecafa Senior challenge cup final match at Kenyatta stadium in Machakos on December 17, 2017. Kenya won 3-2 on post match penaltes [Photo/Stafford Ondego/Sportpicha/CITIZEN

“I remember when I was in Machakos, I promised a small token. I want to honour my word by congratulating you again especially our goalkeeper Patrick Matasi. Matasi, thank you my friend, you did us proud. This win is actually dedicated to your contribution,” said Ruto.

The DP added that the eight stadia whose construction is ongoing will be complete by April 2018.

“Stadia in Kamaring will be ready, Makueni, Marsabit, Meru, in Chuka, in Ruring’u, in Eldoret and of course we’ve put 700 million to refurbish and change the Nyayo National Stadium. All those venues will be ready in four months time, while other five are in the pipeline to be complete by end of 2018.”

Sports Cabinet Secretary Dr. Hassan Wario thanked the current Football Kenya Federation (FKF) leadership, noting the progress shown is a result of their behind the scenes frantic efforts.

“When we were talking about a new team that could bring credibility in football, this is what was in our minds. Nick (Mwendwa) did not talk about himself, but he’s always on our corridors asking for more, and the result is clear,” noted the CS.

In tandem with the 2019 Afcon dream, Kenya will pitch camp in Europe next year for the home fixture against Ghana’s Black Stars.

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Uhuru kenyatta Deputy President William Ruto Karen residence new team buss Sh 10 milion gift Sh 50 million if they qualify for Afcon finals shower Harambee Stars with goodies Wiliam Ruto

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