Govt praised for stimulus, officials call for more help

Ally Goshi (front centre). [File]

Mombasa County sub-branch sports administrators have praised the government for cushioning footballers from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Outgoing FKF Mombasa sub-branch chairman Ally Goshi said the government stimulus package was a step in the right direction and that more can be done to let the grants trickle down to the grassroots.

“All sports have been affected by the pandemic. After helping the vulnerable Kenyan Premier League teams, the government should now cast its eyes farther,” said Goshi adding that some sub-branches risk being auctioned for rent arrears for their offices.

“Government’s support should be felt at the grassroots not only by few selected teams,” Goshi said.

“The effort by Sports Cabinet Secretary Amina Mohamed of setting aside Sh20 million to support footballers at the top league is commendable. We are happy with the support, but this is a drop in the ocean.”

FKF presidential aspirant, sports commentator Herbert Mwachiro said: “This is the kind of proactive leadership that sportspersons have been waiting for. Setting up the fund and actualising the distribution of money to players within such a short notice is commendable.”

He added: “It’s encouraging also to notice that women football will also benefit and we hope other tiers of Kenyan football will also be considered in the near future,” added the former FKF Deputy Secretary-General.

Mwachiro said the government is the biggest shareholder when it comes to social welfare of athletes and the football fraternity need to be on the same page with the government in building a sustainable industry.  

“The COVID-19 pandemic has taught us a lot of lessons key among them the need to prepare for rainy days. Players should not suffer post-COVID-19 since there is definitely going to be wholesome changes to the football scenario all over the world,” he reiterated.

If elected as FKF President, Mwachiro said he will fully engage the government to draw clear working lines to encourage corporates to invest in the sport and ensure players will be in a comfort zone.