Kenya’s aspirations of reaching the FIFA World Cup for the first time face a significant hurdle – internal wrangling within the Football Kenya Federation (FKF). Kenyan defender Joseph Okumu, a key player for both club and country, has warned that the federation’s disarray could lead to another suspension from international football, effectively dashing their World Cup dreams.
A History of Self-Inflicted Wounds
The FKF has been plagued by controversy for over a decade. In 2022, a nine-month suspension from FIFA followed government interference in the running of the sport. This resulted in Kenya missing the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Okumu, speaking to BBC Sport Africa, emphasized the need for unity: “[When] all stakeholders come together and make a proper plan to accommodate the players, we can move to the next level,” he said. “We have to stop shooting ourselves in the foot by getting suspended from football because it’s a problem.”
The latest issue stems from a court order suspending the FKF’s annual general meeting (AGM), originally scheduled for March 16th. The AGM was intended to address critical governance issues and pave the way for FKF executive committee elections. However, journalist Milton Nyakundi challenged the legality of the AGM and the eligibility of some candidates, leading to the court’s intervention.
FIFA, the sport’s world governing body, has since intervened, warning the FKF to comply with its statutes and hold the AGM or risk another suspension. They view the court order as “undue influence by third parties” and insist footballing matters should be settled internally. The FKF declined to comment but is appealing the verdict.
The Cost of Another Suspension
Another suspension would be catastrophic for Kenyan football. The Harambee Stars, as the national team is nicknamed, could be barred from the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and potentially the 2025 Nations Cup qualifiers. “It’s crucial to prevent another suspension,” Okumu reiterated. He highlighted the importance of these tournaments for player development: “Playing in tournaments like the AFCON and World Cup qualifying gives most of the local players the exposure that they need to take their careers to the next level.”
A Nation with Deep-Rooted Footballing Passion
Despite a lack of international success, football is a national passion in Kenya. However, alleged corruption, mismanagement, and political interference have hampered progress. The Harambee Stars have never progressed beyond the group stages in their six Nations Cup appearances and haven’t qualified for the finals in 30 years. Pundits advocate for structural reforms within the administration, revitalizing domestic leagues, and investing in grassroots development. Okumu echoed these sentiments: “As long as we don’t have the structures [or] the voice to air issues, then it is a problem,” he said.
A Glimmer of Hope on the Horizon
Kenya, along with Uganda and Tanzania, was chosen to co-host the 2027 Nations Cup finals. This is a significant achievement, marking the first time nations from the Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations (Cecafa) will host the tournament since Ethiopia in 1976. However, Okumu remains focused on the immediate challenge – qualifying for the 2025 Nations Cup in Morocco.
The World Cup Dream Lives On
The return of experienced players like Victor Wanyama and Michael Olunga has bolstered the Harambee Stars. Olunga’s impressive form, scoring five goals in two friendlies against Malawi and Zimbabwe, offers a glimpse of their attacking potential. While reaching the World Cup might seem improbable to some Kenyans, Okumu embodies unwavering optimism. His international career, spanning leagues in South Africa, the USA, Sweden, Belgium, and now France, exemplifies his belief in Kenyan football’s potential. “It will be a dream come true (to reach the World Cup),” Okumu declared, “not even for us only as the players but as a nation.”
Kenya faces a crucial moment. Resolving the FKF’s internal conflicts and fostering a culture of unity are paramount if they are to seriously contend for a place on the world’s biggest football stage. Okumu’s unwavering belief serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring not just the players but the entire nation to dream of a historic World Cup qualification.
