Why Kenyans will now need FKF permit to host village football tournaments

Monicah Masega in action during the inaugural United Nations Football for the Goals tournament in Siaya on August 14, 2023. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

Football lovers in Kenya who wish to organize tournaments in villages and other parts of the country will now need to obtain official permission from the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).

This follows a new directive from the national football body, which says all football activities must be approved by its national office before they are held.

In a circular sent to all football stakeholders, FKF stated that it is the only body in charge of controlling and supervising football matches and related activities in Kenya. This includes tournaments, training camps, trials, and football academies.

FKF explained that it has noticed an increase in unapproved football events being held across the country. These include privately run football academies and player trials organized without informing or seeking clearance from the Federation.

FKF raised concerns that such activities not only go against its rules but also put players, especially young ones, at risk.

“These actions not only undermine the mandate of FKF but also the integrity of the game, and in some instances, expose participants to risk and exploitation by both local and international actors,” the letter read in part.

FKF President Hussein Mohammed, General Secretary Harold Ndege, and Vice President McDonald Mariga signed the letter.

The Federation said the new move is aimed at improving safety in the game and protecting players from harm, especially during unofficial tournaments or trials that are not closely monitored.

The Federation now requires anyone who wants to organize any kind of football event — even in the smallest village — to write to the FKF National Office well before the event.

Organizers must explain the purpose of the event, where it will be held, and who will take part. They must also show that they have taken steps to keep players and staff safe, including appointing someone to handle safeguarding.

If a football event is being held in a county, FKF says the organizer must also speak to officials from that county’s FKF branch. A copy of the request should be sent to the nearest FKF office for local coordination.

However, FKF made it clear that only the National Office has the final say on whether a football activity is allowed or not.

No FKF branch, local group, or individual has the authority to give approval on their own. This rule applies to events involving FKF-registered players, teams, referees, coaches, or even use of registered playing fields.

FKF warned that any football activity held without its official approval will be treated as unauthorized. The Federation added that anyone who takes part in such events — including FKF members — could face disciplinary action. These could include suspension or even being removed from FKF membership altogether.

The new measures are expected to change the way local football events are organized across Kenya, including small tournaments in villages and towns.

While some may see this as strict, FKF says it is all about protecting the game and those who love to play it.