Kenya’s Football Federation (FKF) members will elect a new leader on Saturday as the country faces mounting pressure over delayed preparations for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) scheduled for February 2025.
The election comes after years of turmoil, with outgoing president Nick Mwendwa stepping down following allegations of financial misconduct in 2021. Although reinstated by FIFA after corruption charges were dropped, Mwendwa is ineligible for re-election, having already served two terms.
CHAN, Africa’s second-largest football tournament, is jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania from February 1 to 28. However, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has raised concerns over Kenya’s readiness, particularly regarding Nairobi’s Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums.
While Nyayo Stadium is nearing completion, CAF inspectors flagged Kasarani at only 71% finished, giving Kenya a December 31 deadline to show substantial progress.
With the CHAN qualifiers set to conclude later this month, the tournament is seen as a vital precursor to the 2027 African Cup of Nations, which East Africa will host for the first time.
Kenya’s new FKF leadership faces the dual challenge of addressing domestic football governance issues and ensuring CHAN’s successful organisation, a test that could define the region’s footballing credibility.
