The bond between President William Ruto and Harambee Stars is quickly becoming one of the biggest talking points off the pitch. And on Sunday, it delivered a moment that had football fans buzzing.
After Kenya’s impressive win over Zambia, a result that sealed top spot in Group A of the CHAN qualifiers, the President joined the team in the dressing room to celebrate. In a video shared by the Football Kenya Federation, CHAN top scorer Austin Odhiambo took his chance.
The Gor Mahia forward walked straight up to the Head of State and asked him to intervene in securing the Baba Dogo Grounds for the local community. Ruto did not hesitate.
“Ile kiwanja nishaamua… nitanyorosha. Usijali, hiyo nitasort out. Hio ni kiwanja yenyu. Na hata kama nitalipa, mimi nitalipa,” the President replied, to cheers from the players
President Ruto’s pledge suggests the government will move to acquire the land, develop it into a sports facility and give it to the community.
If that happens, it will not just be a victory for the people of Baba Dogo. It will be a win for Kenyan football, preserving a cradle of talent and a stage where the next Michael Olunga or Austin Odhiambo can be discovered.
