This archive report was first published on 26 August 2019.
The Kenyan Premier League is set to kick off this weekend, with teams from across the country vying for the top spot. However, a major concern has been cast over the league's future due to the lack of a sponsor.
Last season's sponsors, Sportpesa, pulled out following a disagreement with the government over taxation. The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) had withdrawn their licenses over alleged tax evasion claims by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).
The exit of Sportpesa has had a ripple effect on the league and individual clubs. Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards, the country's biggest clubs, are already feeling the pinch of the pull-out. Despite efforts to find a new sponsor, these clubs are yet to secure one, with AFC Leopards even resorting to asking fans for help through a pay bill number.
The lack of sponsorship is a major concern for the league, with the possibility of walk-overs and non-payment of referees looming large if a sponsor is not found by half-season. The Federation of Kenyan Football (FKF) must step in to ensure the league does not collapse.
As the league directors engage with over 25 companies that have shown interest in partnering with them, they remain hopeful of securing a sponsor by mid-season. However, the clock is ticking, and the league's future hangs in the balance.
It's not the first time the league has faced a sponsorship crisis, with Pay-TV channel SuperSport pulling out as title sponsors two years ago. The league has yet to find a broadcast partner since then, but local broadcasters like Madgoat TV may fill the gap.
