Leaders hail Harambee Stars after escaping group of death unbeaten
By Nancy Marende, August 17, 2025KANU Chairman Gideon Moi has joined a growing list of leaders and Kenyans celebrating Harambee Stars’ narrow but crucial 1-0 victory over Zambia at Kasarani Stadium in the ongoing CHAN 2024 tournament.
Kenya, already assured of progression to the quarter-finals before the game, sealed the top spot in Group A after substitute Boniface Muchiri released a perfectly timed pass to Ryan Ogam, who controlled it calmly before blasting past the Zambian keeper in the 75th minute.
In a statement on Sunday, August 17, 2025, Moi described the Stars as “heroes on the pitch,” with the goal that sent Kasarani into wild celebrations as the team cemented their unbeaten win.
“Kenya’s heroes on the pitch. “Congratulations, Harambee Stars!” he stated.
On his part, Siaya Governor James Orengo declared Ryan Ogam the man of the match, applauding the team’s undaunted spirit.
“Brian Ogam, Man of the Match! What a performance, what a victory! Kenya edges Zambia 1–0 in CHAN 2025, with Ogam’s brilliance sealing the win. Harambee Stars, you’ve made the nation proud once again, undaunted, unbeaten, unstoppable!” he stated.
Other leaders
On the other hand, former Kenya Film and Classification Board (KFCB) Ezekiel Mutua congratulated the national team for their spirited performance, hailing the victory as a show of resilience and national pride.
“Harambee Stars has made life quite complicated for Tanzania. Morocco will play like wounded buffaloes. On the flip side, we must not underrate Madagascar despite the home advantage. The CHAN tournament has become more enjoyable as it progresses. We may end up playing Morocco in the finals!” he stated.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula said the victory had spread happiness “all over the country”.
“The happiness all over the country is sponsored by @Harambee__Stars . Congratulations, boys, for the outstanding performance today!” he stated.
Similarly, Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale and MPs Caleb Amisi and others praised the team’s fighting spirit and predicted more glory ahead
“Congratulations, Harambee Stars! Kenya 1, Zambia 0,” Khalwale said.
“Harambee Stars hoyee!!!!. I predicted 2.1, and you brought 1.0. The results are the same. Well done! See you in quarters! Kenya needs a Renaissance,” Amisi stated.