President William Ruto has urged the Harambee Stars to give their all in the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN), reminding the players that they will represent the hopes of over 50 million Kenyans when they take the field.Follow our WhatsApp channel for more newsThe national team is currently in a residential camp at Kasarani, preparing for the tournament under the guidance of head coach Benni McCarthy. So far, the team has played one friendly match, falling 2-1 to a select side made up of former Kariobangi Sharks players on Tuesday.##NAJAVA_MECA_9019145##On Wednesday, the team received a surprise visit from President Ruto, who toured the recently renovated Moi International Sports Centre and took time to motivate the players at their Kasarani Annex training base. The CHAN tournament kicks off on August 2 and will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.“You are going to represent more than 50 million Kenyans, and that is the weight of responsibility on your shoulders,” Ruto told the players. “I have come here to tell you that we believe in your capacity and potential, and we will proudly cheer you to victory. Know that the whole country is behind you. Let it be historic—if we are hosting it for the first time, then we must win.” “I do not need to convince anybody”: McCarthy responds to striker’s exit from Harambee Stars squadKenya was awarded the CHAN co-hosting rights in 2023, beating out several other bidding nations. The President expressed confidence in the country’s ability to successfully stage both CHAN and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).“We are delighted as a country to host this tournament. We will be making history for Kenya. When I made the decision for Kenya to bid for both CHAN and AFCON, I believed we had the capacity and ability to deliver,” he added.STARS ABROAD: Harambee Stars ace features as Walsall stun Aston Villa in pre-season clashHead coach Benni McCarthy thanked the president for his visit and pledged that the team would give its all in the tournament.“We are honoured to have you here despite your demanding schedule. Your presence means a lot to us, and we promise to give our best and work hard to make the nation proud,” said the South African tactician.As part of their final preparations, Harambee Stars will travel to Tanzania this weekend to take part in a four-nation mini-tournament featuring hosts Tanzania, Uganda, and Congo Brazzaville.STARS ABROAD: Okumu on target as Reims maintain perfect pre-season form
