Harambee Stars Player Austin Odhiambo's Video Struggling to Pay Rent Resurfaces
- Harambee Stars players have become overnight millionaires, thanks to President William Ruto’s generous rewards for their CHAN wins and progress
- Among the biggest beneficiaries is Austin Odhiambo, who scored crucial goals and now enjoys the limelight after years of financial struggles
- A resurfaced 2020 video of him lamenting unpaid bills inspired Kenyans, many praising his persistence and rise from hardship to glory
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Harambee Stars players have made a fortune during the African Nations Championship (CHAN), changing their lives.
Source: Instagram
President William Ruto gave them KSh 1 million each for a win, KSh 500,000 for a draw, and KSh 2.5 million for reaching the competition’s quarter-finals.
He also promised them two-bedroom houses if they win the quarter-finals, making them instant multimillionaires within weeks.
Did Austin Odhiambo struggle?
Among the players whose lives have massively changed is Austin Odhiambo, who has been instrumental in the team’s success.
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Odhiambo gave Kenya victory in their opening match against the Democratic Republic of Congo, before salvaging a draw against Angola from the penalty spot.
Amid the glory, a video of Odhiambo saying he was struggling to pay rent has resurfaced on social media.
In the 2020 video, Odhiambo, then plying his trade for AFC Leopards, publicly hinted at moving to his current club, Gor Mahia.
The attacker accused AFC of failing to pay his dues on time, admitting that he was stressed.
“As we speak, I have not paid my rent. I have not paid my parents’ rent,” he told Ebru TV.
According to Odhiambo, he had met AFC officials the previous week and explained to them his pressing financial needs, and they promised to get back to him. However, they had not by that time.
“It’s hard to imagine that Harambee Stars' golden boy Austin Odhiambo was behind on rent just a few years ago, but now, he’s cruising on the winning lane.
"Truly, persistence conquers all obstacles. Usiwahi, give up,” activist Agnes Kagure captioned the video.
Many Kenyans were inspired by the video and recognised the importance of never giving up.
Princess K'naan II:
“Stories like Austin’s remind us that no matter how tough life gets, determination and persistence can rewrite your story.”
Amos Otieno:
“I’m very sure there must be a girlfriend somewhere who deserted him during his dark days.”
Princess K'naan II:
“Austin’s rise reminds us that no dream is too far if you keep going, no matter the setbacks.”
Joylene Lastborn:
“Hard times don't last, but strong people do.”
Abdikadir Abdi Ibrahim:
“It’s inspiring to see that the challenges are not obstacles but an opportunity for those who are persistent, like Austin.”
Did Austin Odhiambo send parents money?
Source: UGC
In other news, Odhiambo’s rise at CHAN 2024 filled his family with joy, as they recalled his journey from humble beginnings to national stardom.
After receiving his tournament earnings, he prioritised his parents by sending them money first, a gesture that deeply touched them.
His father fondly remembered how Austin loved football as a child, often playing with improvised balls despite limited resources.
The passion and determination transformed him into one of Harambee Stars’ standout players on the continental stage.
Proofreading by Mercy Nyambura, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
