FKF approval is now a strict requirement for anyone planning to host grassroots football tournaments, trials, or run academies in Kenya. The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has officially made it clear through a public circular that no football-related activity can take place without prior authorization from the national office.
This announcement comes after the federation noticed a growing number of unapproved tournaments and football activities being held across the country—a clear violation of its governing statutes.
In a strongly worded statement, FKF reminded all football stakeholders of its exclusive mandate to regulate and oversee football in Kenya as the country’s officially recognized sporting body by both FIFA and CAF.
What the FKF Circular Says About Unauthorized Tournaments
The FKF circular stated:
“The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) wishes to remind all stakeholders of its constitutional mandate to regulate, control, and supervise all football matches and related activities within the Republic of Kenya.”
It also stressed that FKF approval must be sought before launching any tournament, trial, or academy, noting that failure to do so is not only a breach of protocol, but can also put players at serious risk of exploitation.
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Private Academies and Trials Under Scrutiny
Another major concern for the federation is the rise of private football academies and trials being conducted without their clearance. According to FKF, such activities often operate outside recognized structures and lack essential safeguarding measures.
“These unauthorized football activities compromise the integrity of the game and, in some cases, expose players to potential risks and exploitation,” the statement noted.
As a result, FKF approval is now the only legal pathway for running any football training programs, camps, or player recruitment trials within Kenya.
New FKF Approval Rules You Must Follow
To fix the loopholes and restore order in grassroots football, FKF has introduced mandatory guidelines, effective immediately:
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All organizers must submit a formal request to FKF at least 14 days before the event.
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The application must include:
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Event type and format
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Planned dates and venues
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Full list of teams or players
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Safeguarding measures in place
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Details of the designated safeguarding officer
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If hosting the event at the county level, organizers must consult the respective FKF branch office and submit a copy of the request to them as well.
This step ensures better coordination, oversight, and player protection.
National Office Has Final Say – Not Branches
FKF emphasized that no individual, FKF branch, or local group has the authority to approve football-related activities on their own. Only the National Office can provide official FKF approval.
“No FKF branch, individual, or local group is permitted to authorize football activities involving FKF-affiliated clubs, players, coaches, referees, or venues without prior clearance from the National Office.”
This statement was signed by FKF Secretary General Harold Ndege, who warned that any violations will result in immediate consequences.
Penalties for Ignoring FKF Approval Rules
FKF also issued a stern warning to any stakeholders who attempt to bypass the new rules.
“Any football activity conducted without the express authorization of FKF shall be deemed unauthorized. FKF members involved in such activities risk facing disciplinary measures, including suspension or deregistration.”
This means players, coaches, referees, and even entire clubs could be punished for participating in or organizing unapproved football events. FKF approval is no longer optional—it’s now mandatory and enforceable.
