Kenya’s football landscape is set for a seismic shift as nine candidates have officially thrown their hats into the ring to contest for the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) presidency. With the election slated for December 2024, this critical event will determine who will guide the nation’s football management into a new era.
Current FKF President Nick Mwendwa, who has led the organization for eight years, is now ineligible for another term under the Sports Act 2013. However, Mwendwa has endorsed current Vice President Doris Petra and will serve as her running mate in an unexpected but strategic move. This endorsement has drawn significant attention, placing Petra in the spotlight as a key figure in the race.
But Petra is not alone in her quest for the FKF presidency. Several other prominent candidates are gearing up to challenge her for the coveted position. From football administrators to former players and business leaders, the pool of candidates represents a wide range of experiences and visions for Kenyan football. Below, we’ll take a closer look at the nine contenders and what they bring to the table.
1. Doris Petra – Backed by Nick Mwendwa
Perhaps the most significant development of the day was the endorsement of Doris Petra by the outgoing president himself, Nick Mwendwa. Petra, the current FKF Vice President, has been a key figure in Kenyan football administration and is highly regarded for her dedication to the development of the sport, particularly at the grassroots level. Her decision to run with Mwendwa, albeit in a reversed role, signals continuity in the current FKF administration’s policies and strategies. 
Petra has served as FKF Vice President for two terms, making her a seasoned administrator with deep insights into the inner workings of Kenyan football. If elected, she will become the first female FKF President, a historic moment for both Kenyan and African football.
2. Hussein Mohamed – CEO of Extreme Sports and MacDonald Mariga
One of the most formidable challengers in the race is Hussein Mohamed, the CEO of Extreme Sports, a leading sports management company in Kenya. Mohamed has made a name for himself as a visionary leader with a deep understanding of sports management. His running mate, MacDonald Mariga, is a former Kenyan international footballer who holds the distinction of being the first Kenyan to win the UEFA Champions League, having done so with Inter Milan in 2010.
This combination of business acumen and football experience makes Mohamed’s ticket a strong contender in the race. Their campaign promises to focus on professionalizing the FKF, improving transparency, and building stronger relationships with international football bodies.
3. Barry Otieno – Former FKF CEO and Lucy Kaiga
Barry Otieno, who recently resigned as FKF CEO, enters the race with substantial experience within the federation. Having worked closely with the outgoing administration, Otieno understands the challenges that Kenyan football faces from an insider’s perspective. His running mate, Lucy Kaiga, has served as the Chairperson of FKF Nyandarua Branch and brings her own leadership experience to the table.
Otieno’s platform is expected to highlight transparency, accountability, and restructuring FKF’s governance to ensure the organization meets international standards. His decision to step down from his FKF role to run for president showcases his commitment to leading the federation into a new chapter.
4. Chris Amimo – Youth Football Advocate and Antony Makau
Chris Amimo is another key figure vying for the top spot. As head of youth football at FKF and the proprietor of Ligi Ndogo, a renowned youth football academy in Kenya, Amimo has built a reputation for nurturing young talent. His running mate, Antony Makau, is the interim Eastern region NEC member and a former Vice Chairman of the Referees Committee.
Amimo’s focus on youth development is a significant part of his platform. He believes that the future of Kenyan football lies in investing in the next generation of players and ensuring that young talent is provided with the right infrastructure to thrive.
5. Sammy ‘Kempes’ Owino – Former International and Evance Kadenge
Sammy ‘Kempes’ Owino, a former Kenyan international based in the US, is also in the running for FKF president. Owino has remained active in Kenyan football circles despite being abroad, and his platform focuses on bringing international expertise and experience to FKF. His running mate, Evance Kadenge, is the current chairman of Nzoia Sugar FC, further strengthening his football management credentials.
Owino’s experience as a player and coach both locally and internationally offers a unique perspective on how to develop the sport at all levels. He advocates for improved facilities, better coaching standards, and a more professional approach to football management.
6. Tom Alila – Former FKF NEC Member and Beryl Adhiambo
Tom Alila, a former FKF NEC member, is running with Beryl Adhiambo, a former referee and coach. Alila’s campaign is likely to emphasize governance reforms and improving the financial health of FKF. With his background in football governance, Alila seeks to bring a more structured and efficient approach to the federation.
7. Sam Nyamweya – Former FKF President and Patricia Mutheu
Sam Nyamweya is no stranger to FKF, having served as its president before Nick Mwendwa took over in 2016. Nyamweya’s return to the race comes with a promise to restore stability to Kenyan football, drawing on his extensive experience. His running mate, Patricia Mutheu, is a former Mathare United CEO and former MCA, adding political acumen to his ticket.
Nyamweya’s platform is expected to focus on restoring FKF’s credibility, both domestically and internationally.
8. Cleophas Shimanyula – Kakamega Homeboyz Owner and Twaha Mbarak
Cleophas Shimanyula, the current chairman and owner of Kakamega Homeboyz, is running with Twaha Mbarak, a former FKF Vice President and current Vice Chairman of Bandari FC. Shimanyula’s experience in managing a successful football club will be central to his campaign as he advocates for improved club football management and financial sustainability.
9. Sam Ocholla – Gor Mahia Secretary General and Willis Waliaula
The final candidate is Sam Ocholla, the current Secretary General of Gor Mahia, one of Kenya’s most successful football clubs. His running mate, Willis Waliaula, has held management positions at Tusker FC and Sofapaka FC, bringing a wealth of football administration experience to the ticket.
The 2024 FKF presidential race is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in Kenyan football history. Each of the nine candidates brings a unique set of skills, experiences, and visions for the future of the sport in the country. As the December elections approach, Kenyan football stakeholders will be closely watching how these candidates present their plans to improve football management and development in the nation. The future of Kenyan football hangs in the balance, and the outcome of this election will shape the sport for years to come.
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