FKF chief Hussein confident Kenya will host CHAN, says Odemba ‘still Starlets coach’

Football Kenya Federation president Hussein Mohammed has addressed growing concerns during his first 6 months in office. Speaking on Sporty Monday, Citizen TV, Hussein assured Kenyans that the federation is making every effort to promote and develop the game to its best.

He explained that FKF is currently utilising FIFA’s development fees and support from the Ministry of Sports to clear accumulated debts, now standing at Ksh600m and dues left by the previous management.

“We are currently in negotiations with FIFA to lower the steep fines that were meted to FKF during the tenure of the previous office. There are higher-risk debts we aim to pay with urgency, and we’re making sure we clear these dues responsibly.”

Hussein at the same time dismissed rumours that Harambee Starlets coach Beldine Odemba was on her way out, insisting she is still in charge of the team.

“On the issue of the coach (Beldine Odemba), as the president, I try not to interfere with matters that are under the purview of the secretariat, and as things stand she is still the coach.”

He also addressed the licensing fees required for Kenyan clubs, particularly Kenya Police FC, who are pencilled to represent the country at next year’s CAF champions’ League, noting that the federation is currently pushing to resolve “these financial obstacles to enable the newly-crowned KPL champions to compete at a continental level”.

In addition, Hussein outlined his future plans, emphasising the need to align FKF structures with government policy and to construct a technical centre that will aid in developing players and improving the performance of all the national teams.

“We want to rebuild Kenyan football from the grassroots to the highest level. It’s a process, not something that can be rated in a short period. My plan is still intact on building the FKF technical centre. We are just awaiting the title deed approval for the land in Machakos.”

He also expressed confidence that Kenya, alongside Uganda and Tanzania, will successfully host CHAN 2025, adding that preparations are on track to make the continental showpiece a success.

“We will host CHAN, that’s for sure,” he said, when asked of the hosting chances.

The biennial competition was initially set for February 2025 but had to be pushed back to August due to lack of readiness by the host countries.

He called for patience and unity, noting that the institution was nearing a halt by previous regimes and it will take time to put it back on a strong footing. His main focus, Hussein said, is strengthening the foundation of Kenyan Football to allow future generations of players to flourish.