National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula’s criticism of the Football Kenya Federation misses a key point: successive government administrations have historically failed to meaningfully support the sport’s growth and development.
Wetang’ula should note that football is now better managed compared to 30 years ago. The lack of government support for infrastructure and other developmental aspects has significantly contributed to the lackluster growth of football in Kenya over the years.
During the vetting of Cabinet nominee for the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, Kipchumba Murkomen, Wetang’ula compared the current state of football in Kenya with that of three decades ago, claiming the sport was in better shape then.
He encouraged Murkomen to risk a FIFA ban by interfering with the Football Kenya Federation, criticizing its leadership for the perceived decline in football standards.
What Wetang’ula overlooked is that holistic football development involves various stakeholders, with the government playing a crucial role. Historically, the Kenyan government has failed to develop infrastructure, except for recent efforts by the current administration, which has shown support for sports through the Talanta Hela Initiative.
This initiative has marked a significant shift, with notable support for junior teams, such as the Talanta Hela Under-19 team attending a boot camp in Spain, and overall support for other teams. The ongoing construction of the Talanta Hela stadium, renovations at Kasarani stadium, and redevelopment of Nyayo Stadium are commendable strides.
Wetang’ula’s reference to the past fails to acknowledge that, back then, government ministries and parastatals directly offered employment to players, serving as a primary incentive. Today, rampant unemployment in both the private and public sectors means players largely rely on direct employment by clubs.
The Football Kenya Federation’s efforts to professionalize football have led to clubs now paying salaries to their players, who are legally and professionally contracted.
Moreover, the professionalization of football in Kenya has opened opportunities for many footballers to play abroad, earning decent incomes and significantly contributing to national teams across all age groups.
