By Kenn Okaka
The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League season is down and dusted, and the best of the best through the season well feted at the recent FKF annual awards gala. As we reflect on the recently concluded FKF Premier League (FKFPL) season, it’s clear that Kenyan football is on an unprecedented upward trajectory. The 2023/24 season was not just another chapter in our footballing story; it was a testament to the resilience, growth, and potential that defines Kenyan football. With strategic partnerships, enhanced financial support, and a focus on grassroots development, the FKFPL has set a new benchmark for success.
Unprecedented Financial Support
With an unprecedented difficult economic time, which have seen corporate sponsorship dwindle in sports, this season, each FKF Premier League team received a minimum of Ksh 10 million in grants, a figure that surpasses the amount that has previously been offered during the eras where the league had different sponsors. This financial milestone was achieved through FKF’s partnerships with Azam TV and KBC TV, which was entered courtesy of the Ministry of Youth Affairs, the Creative Economy, and Sports in collaboration with the ministry of ICT, marking a significant step forward in the league’s commercialization and sustainability efforts.
Rewarding Excellence
Gor Mahia, the league champions, were awarded Ksh 5 million from the federation even without a title sponsor, even though not significantly enough, this was a clear indication of FKF’s commitment to not only recognize, but also reward excellence. With a potential title sponsors on the horizon, the future can only be bright for our clubs and the league at large.
Mozzart Bet Cup and Pre-Season Planning
The timely awarding of cash rewards to all the winners of the Mozzart Bet Cup and other FKF National leagues has continue to empower teams to effectively plan for pre-season and the start of the new campaign. This is crucial for the stability and growth of our clubs.
Enhanced Media Coverage
With six matches broadcasted on TV each week, including four on PayTV and two on free-to-air channels, the FKFPL has become more attractive to fans and potential partners alike. This increased visibility is a cornerstone of our strategy to elevate the league’s profile both locally and internationally.
A Focus on Professionalism
The mandatory requirement of qualified marketing and commercialization officers for FKFPL teams starting this coming season will be a game-changer. By professionalizing the commercial aspects of our clubs, we’re laying the groundwork for sustainable growth and partnership opportunities. This, coupled with the requirement for media officers, will significantly boosted our teams’ presence across various media platforms, enhancing their marketability.
Grassroots and Coaching Development
FKF’s deliberate efforts to commercialize the league and emphasize grassroots football underscore the FKF’s belief in the foundational aspects of the sport. By conducting CAF coaching courses and mandating CAF A licenses for top league coaches, we’re ensuring that our players receive top-notch training and development, contributing to a higher quality of football that attracts fans and sponsors alike. Football Legend Musa Otieno during his speech noted that the current FKF administration focus on capacity building of coaches is a long term solution to a long term problem that has affected our football since previous administration never bother to conduct coaching courses. The Legendary most capped Harambee stars legend is currently a FKF and CAF Instructor. FKF under Nick Mwendwa administration has coached over 8 thousand coaches since 2016…Today Kenya has more than 70 CAF A licensed coaches…
Infrastructure and Fan Experience
The renovation of several stadiums across the country is a promise of better days ahead. We envision a future where fans enjoy unparalleled match-day experiences, further boosting attendance and engagement.
Broadcast Quality and Fan Engagement
FKF’s broadcast partners, Azam TV and KBC have gone above and beyond to ensure fans at home enjoy high-quality TV experiences, bringing the excitement of Kenyan football into living rooms across the nation. AFC Leopards Chairman Dan Shikanda during the FKF Gala award ceremony thanked FKF for orchestrating a league that was not only successful but also transformative, this in regards of course has been made possible mostly due to two TV deals the Federation secured for the top league.
As we look forward to the 2023/24 season, the FKF Premier League stands at the cusp of a new era. With solid foundations in place and a clear vision for the future, we are confident that the best is yet to come. The success of a nation’s football is indeed measured by the strength of its leagues and the vibrancy of its grassroots development. In this regard, the FKFPL is not just succeeding; it’s thriving.
Kenn Okaka
Head of Media and Communications, Football Kenya Federation
