In a momentous celebration of talent and determination, Kenya’s Under-20 men’s football team, known as the Rising Stars, received Sh1.8 million in recognition of their historic qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This achievement came on the heels of a resounding 4-0 victory over Burundi during the CECAFA U-20 Championship semi-finals in Dar es Salaam.
The team was honored during a breakfast event hosted by Kipchumba Murkomen, the Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports. Murkomen highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting young athletes and emphasized the importance of nurturing talent, noting that six of the players developed through national U-13, U-15, and U-17 teams.
“The increased financial backing for our national teams allows players to concentrate on their game without the burden of logistical concerns,” Murkomen stated. According to him, preparations for AFCON 2025 will commence immediately, including extensive local and international training camps and friendly matches against leading teams in their quest for AFCON success and a potential spot in the U-20 FIFA World Cup.
Murkomen also discussed the Ministry’s broader objectives, which include leveraging technology to enhance talent discovery and facilitating access for Kenyan players to international academies. The government aims to establish 30 sports academies throughout Kenya, aspiring to create one in each of the country’s 290 constituencies.
“Our ambitions extend beyond immediate AFCON glory. We’re focused on qualifying for the U-20 FIFA World Cup as well,” Murkomen affirmed.
Under the guidance of coach Salim Babu, the U-20 team’s journey to this pivotal qualification has been both impressive and inspiring. The Sh1.8 million reward represents part of the Ministry’s initiative to acknowledge and motivate top-performing athletes.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the players, coaches, the Football Kenya Federation, the technical staff, and the fans for this remarkable achievement,” Murkomen concluded, as preparations for AFCON 2025 gear up and Kenya aims to leave a significant mark in continental football.
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