Boost for Mombasa football teams as county government unveils funding plan

The decision followed a meeting between Abdulswamad Sharif Nassir, the Governor of Mombasa County, and officials from the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Mombasa branch led by chairman Alamin Abdalla.

Under the agreement, Governor Nassir committed to covering participation fees for all teams competing in different leagues within the county.

“A promise is a debt. We agreed on a clear timeline for the implementation so that our clubs can continue participating fully in league activities without unnecessary financial strain,” said Nassir.

He added that his administration remains dedicated to supporting sports development and creating opportunities for young people through football.

“Our administration remains firmly committed to supporting sports development and creating pathways for our youth to grow, compete and succeed.

“Grassroots football is a critical part of that journey, and we will continue working closely with stakeholders to strengthen the game in Mombasa,” he said.

Speaking after the meeting, FKF Mombasa chairman Abdalla revealed that county leaders are planning to organize a major fundraising drive next month to further support local teams and nurture football talent.

“We saw what happened in Kwale County over the weekend and our governor was present. I believe he saw the importance of ensuring Mombasa is not left behind,” Abdalla said.

“He has promised that next month we will hold a fundraising event to help boost the financial capacity of our teams.

“Many leaders compete in doing good, and now it is the turn of Mombasa leaders to compete in equipping and supporting our teams,” he added.

Meanwhile, FKF Deputy Chairperson Betty Kerubo and Secretary General Stephene Mureithi welcomed the outcome of the meeting, noting that transport costs and lack of sponsorship remain some of the biggest challenges facing teams in the county.

Kerubo said many teams that previously competed in Division Two were forced to drop out due to financial difficulties.

“Last year we had many teams in Division Two, but several dropped out because of financial constraints.

“You may find a team with very talented players, but they end up moving to more stable clubs,” she said.

She urged the county government and other well-wishers to step in and support the growth of football in the region.

Mureithi also highlighted the high cost of travelling for away matches as a major challenge for clubs based in Mombasa.

“It is true that our top teams in Mombasa face serious challenges when travelling for away matches.

“A single trip can cost more than 150,000 Kenyan shillings. It would help greatly if the county government could purchase a sports bus to support our teams,” he said.