This archive report was first published on 11 October 2019.
October 11, 2019 - Nairobi, Kenya - The Kenyan Premier League is facing a severe financial crisis, with referees going unpaid since the season started.
With no broadcast partner and dwindling sources of income, the league's daily operations are at risk. Chief Executive Officer Jack Oguda remains hopeful of securing a new sponsor within the next month.
"At the moment, we don't have anything concrete, but we've reached out to several potential sponsors and sent them proposals," Oguda said in an interview with Capital Sport.
Despite the challenges, Sofapaka boss Elly Kalekwa, who heads the league's sponsorship and marketing committee, remains optimistic.
"We'll continue searching and see what comes out of it," Kalekwa stated.
Many clubs are struggling to keep their daily programs running, with only a few, including KCB, Tusker FC, Ulinzi Stars, Bandari, and Wazito FC, receiving financial support from corporate sponsors.
For most teams, including Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards, the situation is dire, with some clubs already seeking donations to stay afloat.
"It was better when SuperSport was involved, as we received grants of almost half a million shillings every month. Now, there's nothing, and even the small amount we got from SportPesa is no longer available," Sony Sugar chairman Gabriel Otiende said.
The financial crisis is not limited to the top tier, with the National Super League also facing difficulties due to the halt of their broadcast partnership with Bamba Sports.
"These are difficult times for Kenyan football, with many sponsors lost in the past month. The economy is also struggling, but we're hoping the government will step in and offer support," Football Kenya Federation boss Nick Mwendwa said.
