FKF optimistic despite the heat of sponsor pullout

Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has assured the football fraternity in the country they will strive to ensure activities don’t grind to a halt after the withdrawal of their main sponsor.

Addressing journalists at a press conference on Monday, the federation’s chairman Nick Mwendwa reiterated the government has tentatively agreed to step in and fill the void left by the financiers who withdrew from the sponsorship citing high taxation.

“The government has assured us (FKF) that they will give us half a billion shillings to ensure the league kicks off as scheduled,” underscored Mwendwa.

However, Mwendwa said the money will only be used for the Kenyan Premier League (KPL) and the federation’s operations.

In the same vein, the FKF boss revealed they are in talks with the County Governments in bid to secure sponsorships (the county governments) for the grassroots operations.

He further noted they have not given up on betting firms, but most are reluctant in as discussions on the taxation policy continue.

“The government has no choice but to step in or we will be forced to cut down our activities. Cutting on activities will translate to a huge loss of jobs, loss of funds means loss of jobs,” decried Mwendwa.

For Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards, the clubs that have enjoyed massive financial support from the betting firm, Mwendwa appealed for support from all stakeholders saying they will have it tough in the CAF Champions League and Confederations Cup without the funding.

“These clubs hold the key to the country’s future as a footballing nation. We must recognize they are representing the country and understand their situation, reacting swiftly and positively.”

Meanwhile, the national team Harambee Stars is set to play several international friendlies in March, June, and September this year, according to Mwendwa. He, however, did specify against which teams, saying there are few details to be smoothed out before officially making the announcement.

Additional report by Sarah Osano

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FKF optimistic despite the heat of sponsor pullout Mwendwa acknowledges tough times despite government promise

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