This archive report was first published on 3 May 2021.
President Kenyatta's directive during his Labor Day address last weekend has brought hope for the resumption of football Mtaani activities in the country. The directive stated that sporting activities may return upon review of regulations by the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Sports.
As a result, stakeholders are awaiting the joint declaration of the new guidelines and regulations by the two ministries. This move is expected to bring back the excitement of community football, which has been on hold since the Covid-19 third wave in March.
Community football has been a vital part of Nairobi's neighborhoods, attracting great interest from neighboring communities. The Bangbet Champee wa Mtaa tournament, held in Kibera and other regions in Nairobi, is a prime example of this. The tournament attracted over 3000 fans and provided participating teams with jerseys and balls, helping them pick up team training.
Speaking to the Standard Sports, Kipaji Soccer Academy head coach Feisal Hassan expressed relief and happiness at the government's decision. He noted that the pandemic has brought a massive loss to the sports industry, but teams have been practicing and hoping for things to get better with time.
Fans are equally optimistic that the pandemic will soon be managed, allowing them to watch their favorite teams play in stadiums. As one fan, Omollo, said, 'Watching my home boys play football was part of my routine because I enjoy watching them grow and follow their dream but now I cannot anymore because of the Covid-19 restrictions.'
