Fifa backs Kenya's cerebral palsy football dream

Fifa's Diversity and Anti-Discrimination Project Manager Terry Ouko (fourth right) poses for a group photo with national cerebral palsy players and officials at Parklands Sports Club, Nairobi, on Thursday. [FKF Media]

There is hope for players with disabilities in Kenya after the Cerebral Palsy Sports Federation of Kenya (CPSFK) received support from world football governing body, Fifa.

Former Harambee Starlets international Terry Ouko, who is Fifa's Diversity and Anti-discrimination Project Manager, led the delegation to the CPSFK office at Parklands Sports Club in Nairobi to show support on Thursday.

The visit came after Fifa launched a new guide called the Disability Football Toolkit. This guide helps countries and football clubs include players with disabilities-like those with cerebral palsy, amputations, hearing loss, or blindness-into the game.

"We came here to support the team as they prepare for big matches, including the World Cup," said Ouko.

"We brought gifts, spoke to the players, and encouraged them. Every child should have the chance to play football and follow their dreams."

Ouko, who is also a former Harambee Starlets captain, called on parents to stop hiding their children with disabilities but expose them to the world because they too deserve a chance.

"Please, let your children come out and play. Football can be a safe place for them to grow and shine. We are all different, but we all have talent," she added.

Lydia Iregi, Cerebral Palsy Sports Federation of Kenya president and a former athlete, was full of joy after the visit.

"We thank Fifa from the bottom of our hearts," said Iregi.

"This is not just a visit - it is history. For many years, children with cerebral palsy have been forgotten. But today, Fifa reminded them and all of us that they matter, and that they too can wear the national team jersey with pride."

FKF's Women Football Administrator, Neddy Atieno, promised more support for such programmes.

"Fifa's new toolkit is more than just a booklet. It is a door to new chances for many talented boys and girls across Kenya who have been left out because they are different," Atieno said.

"We at FKF stand with CPSFK and will help create a safe, inclusive space for all players."

Kenya's cerebral palsy football team coach Willis Odhiambo was also moved by the moment.

Odhiambo, who is a former goalkeeper, said the donations and new tools from Fifa are a huge step forward in their fight for equality and inclusivity.

"This is not just help-it is hope," said Odhiambo.

"Fifa has given us visibility, support, and strength. We are proud to be part of this global push for inclusion. And now, we want to go out there and raise Kenya's flag high."