Ezekiel Mutua: Harambee Stars’ win has united the country
Former Music Copyright Society of Kenya (MCSK) CEO Ezekiel Mutua has praised Harambee Stars for their historic win against DR Congo, calling the victory a unifying moment for the country.
In a statement shared via his X account on Sunday, August 3, 2025, Mutua expressed deep admiration for the team’s performance, saying the win had lifted the country’s spirits and brought a sense of shared celebration.
You might also like
He noted that football has a unique ability to bring Kenyans together, regardless of their backgrounds or political affiliations, and that the positive energy generated by the match could be felt across the country.
“That Harambee Stars win has crowned the weekend. I don’t know how I would be feeling if we had lost. One can feel the collective joy across the land. Football is a unifier!” Mutua said.
Victory
Kenya’s national football team made history by defeating DR Congo 1–0 at the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani. The win marked Kenya’s first-ever victory and goal in the African Nations Championship (CHAN).
The decisive moment came just before halftime when Gor Mahia midfielder Austin Odhiambo calmly dribbled past defenders and slotted the ball into the net, sending the packed stadium into celebration. The match was attended by thousands of cheering fans, government officials, and football lovers.
Earlier in the game, DR Congo had a goal ruled out for offside. The disallowed goal appeared to boost Kenya’s focus and confidence. The Harambee Stars responded with disciplined play, especially in midfield and defence.
Alpha Onyango delivered an outstanding performance and was named Man of the Match. Manzur Suleiman, playing in a holding role, was also praised for his ability to disrupt DR Congo’s game plan.
The win was celebrated across the country and drew praise from top leaders, including President William Ruto. In a surprise visit to the team’s locker room after the match, Ruto congratulated the players and fulfilled his earlier promise by awarding each of them KSh1 million for the win.
“Na si sasa kila mtu ako na milioni moja,” Ruto told the visibly excited players.
“Kesho asubuhi, Hussein, nipitie pale State House uchukue mali ya hawa vijana,” he said, instructing Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed to collect the money.
The President commended the team for their discipline and courage, singling out Austin Odhiambo for his crucial goal.
“You did very well,” Ruto said. “Thank you Bwana Austin kwa kutupea bao la kipekee.”
Ruto has pledged strong support for football development in Kenya. Besides the Ksh600 million set aside for the sport, he had promised to reward players with Ksh1 million for every win and Ksh500,000 for a draw. He also committed Ksh60 million if the team reaches the quarterfinals and Ksh70 million for a semifinal appearance.
“We’re building a winning culture. The government is fully behind you. Play with heart, the nation is watching,” Ruto said.
