Orange Democratic Movement party leader Raila Odinga on Thursday said President Uhuru Kenyatta had instructed him to stay in Cairo until Sunday when Harambee Stars play their first game.
The Kenyan soccer team is scheduled to play Algeria in their opening match on Sunday, a game which President Kenyatta is very interested to see it winning.
At Cairo on Thursday, the African Union High Representative for Infrastructural Development also asked players to play with courage throughout their assignment.
"PL @RailaOdinga today visited the Harambee Stars camp in Egypt and had a good time with the team. He encouraged the boys to face their opponents without fear adding that their determination & courage will bear fruits. CS @EugeneLWamalwa accompanied him," Raila told the players.
According to him, President Uhuru Kenyatta will also jet to Cairo should Harambee Stars qualify for the finals later on in July.
"You're among best players in the world. Do let small countries like Zimbabwe defeat you. The president has requested me to stay here until you play the first match and if you qualify for the finals, he will come," he said.
Harambee Stars will later on play favourites Senegal popularly known as Teranga Lions before facing neighbours Taifa Stars from Tanzania.
This is the first time Kenya is playing AFCON since 2004. During the Tunis edition, Harambee Stars were knocked out at group stages.