Abud Omar: Ruto has delivered on his Affordable Housing promise for Harambee Stars
By Luke Oluoch, June 8, 2026Members of the Harambee Stars squad from the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) are now proud owners of two-bedroom affordable housing units after the government fulfilled a promise made to them back in September 2025, according to Abud Omar.
Omar, who captained the team during the biennial tournament, confirmed the development through a heartfelt message of gratitude shared on his social media pages on Monday, May 8, 2026.
President William Ruto had pledged to gift each player a two-bedroom unit at a location of their choice following their historic run in the tournament.
Odds-defying campaign
Benni McCarthy’s team achieved a historic milestone during the competition, advancing past the so-called “Group of Death” as the winners before suffering a heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat to Madagascar in the quarterfinals.
Leading the appreciation on behalf of the squad, Omar stated:
“On behalf of the entire team, players, and officials who participated in CHAN, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to His Excellency William Ruto and his government for fulfilling the promise made to us.”
Under the co-payment arrangement, the government heavily subsidised the units, leaving the players to cover a specific, affordable portion of the total cost. Omar lauded the initiative, describing it as a life-changing gesture and a genuine commitment to uplifting the welfare of local athletes.
From CHAN heroes to homeowners
“The opportunity to own affordable two-bedroom houses, where we contribute Ksh1 million, and the government covers the remaining cost, is a life-changing initiative that will have a lasting impact on our lives and those of our families,” Omar’s statement read.
“As captain, I am proud to speak on behalf of my teammates in saying thank you for recognising our efforts and supporting our future beyond football. This gesture demonstrates a genuine commitment to the welfare of Kenyan athletes and sports officials.”
Ruto joins the CHAN 2024 craze
The tournament saw Harambee Stars leave a lasting mark as the team inspired a country with their fighting spirit, sense of patriotism, and unity.
The president was among the lead cheers of the team and once joined Harambee Stars players in their dressing room and prayed for them after their hard-fought 1–0 victory over Zambia in the ongoing CHAN 2024 tournament on Sunday, August 17, 2025.