Harambee Stars' Chris Erambo Feeds Mathare Kids After CHAN Exit

In the heart of Nairobi's Eastlands, a different kind of victory was celebrated.

While the African Nations Championship (CHAN) reached its climax, one player chose to use his winnings to give back to the very community that helped shape his journey.

Harambee Stars and Tusker FC midfielder Chris Erambo, a standout at the recent tournament, spent a day feeding the young aspiring footballers and dancers of the Mathare Kids Talent Hub.

The Mathare Kids Talent Hub is a beacon of hope in the informal settlement. It offers a safe space for vulnerable children to nurture their skills in football and dance.

This act of kindness by Erambo resonated deeply with the community. It was a tangible show of support from one of their own. The children, their faces bright with excitement, gathered to meet their hero.

The air was full of joy. Erambo, surrounded by the kids, shared stories and advice. He also shared a meal with them. The young talents were pictured smiling widely as they held food gifts from Erambo.

“Yesterday I was privileged to visited an incredible crew @mathare_kids_talents_hub and my heart is full of joy and gratitude ❤️?. Seeing their smiles, dance moves and hearing their laughter reminded me of the beauty of innocence and the importance of kindness," he said.

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"Together we can make a difference and create a brighter future for the little Humans? proud to be part of a community that cares for its most vulnerable,” Erambo added.

Erambo was seen in some images, wearing a simple Harambee Stars jersey and a jeans trousers, chatting with the children.

His presence was a powerful symbol of what is possible. He showed them that success in sport can be a tool for good.

Rewards from the Top

Erambo's donation comes from the bonuses he earned during the CHAN tournament. The Harambee Stars' performance was a highlight for many Kenyans. They were co-hosts of the competition, which was postponed from 2024 to 2025.

During the tournament, the team received significant support from Kenya's political leaders. After a thrilling win against Zambia, President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga both promised rewards.

President Ruto pledged a substantial sum of money – Ksh 1 million for a win, which later upscaled to Ksh2.5M for a win against Zambia.

In total, each player pocketed Ksh 5 million from president Ruto. This included Sh1 million for beating DR Congo, Sh500,000 for a draw against Angola, Sh1 million for beating Morocco, and a further Sh2.5 million for a win against Zambia.

They also got an additional Ksh 500k from Raila Odinga.

The president also promised affordable housing units for each player and technical staff member. Players were offered a deal where the government would pay half of the Sh2 million cost of a two-bedroomed house, with the players paying the other half.

The Journey to the Quarter-Finals

The Harambee Stars' journey in the tournament was remarkable. They finished top of their group with 10 points. They had three wins and one draw, and were unbeaten.

Their record included a 1-0 win against DR Congo, a 1-1 draw with Angola, a 1-0 win over two-time champions Morocco, and a 1-0 win against Zambia.

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It was in the quarter-finals that Kenya's dream run came to an end. They faced a tough Madagascar side. The match ended in a 1-1 draw after extra time. The Barea, as they are known, eventually won 4-3 on penalties.

The penalty shootout was a moment of heartbreak for the home crowd. It also showed the unpredictable nature of knockout football. Despite the exit, the Harambee Stars had achieved their best-ever performance in the tournament.

A Triumphant End for Morocco

While Kenya's tournament ended, the competition continued. The final, held in Nairobi, was a thrilling affair. Morocco, a team that had lost to Kenya in the group stage, faced Madagascar.

The Atlas Lions proved their pedigree. They won the final match with a 3-2 victory. The win cemented their status as a continental powerhouse. It was Morocco's third CHAN title, a record for the tournament.