Hussein Mohammed: The New Hope for Kenyan Football

Hussein Mohammed has been elected as the new president of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF). His task is daunting, as Kenyan football faces numerous challenges requiring urgent attention. Here are the key issues he must address immediately:

1. CHAN 2024 Preparations

Kenya is co-hosting the 2024 African Nations Championships (CHAN) alongside Uganda and Tanzania. However, stadium renovations at Kasarani and Nyayo are behind schedule. With a December 31 deadline, Mohammed must accelerate preparations or risk Rwanda stepping in as a replacement host, a potential national embarrassment.

2. Resolving Engin Firat’s Future

Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat has underperformed, failing to secure Kenya's place in the 2025 AFCON. Despite widespread calls for his dismissal, Firat remains under contract until 2026 and has not been paid for 11 months. Mohammed faces a tough decision: either pay Firat’s dues and terminate the contract or find a way to work with him.

3. Improving Refereeing Standards

Officiating in Kenyan football is at an all-time low, with match-fixing and biased calls tarnishing the game. Referees, unpaid for months, have lost morale, and some have resorted to corruption. Mohammed must ensure referees' welfare is prioritized to restore fairness and integrity.

4. Professionalizing the Kenyan Premier League (KPL)

Mohammed has pledged to revive the league's professionalism by reinstating an independent management system. This move could raise the league’s standards and help transition it from semi-professional to fully professional, attracting more talent and investment.

5. Attracting Sponsors

Sponsorships have dwindled in recent years due to poor management and the tarnished image of Kenyan football. Mohammed must work to rebuild trust, attract sponsors, and increase fan engagement. This would ensure better pay for players and improve the overall quality of the sport.