This archive report was first published on 6 January 2020.
Kenya's football scene is witnessing a crisis, with AFC Leopards, one of the country's top clubs, facing a severe financial crisis. The club's struggles have led to the departure of key players and coaches, raising concerns about the future of the Kenya Premier League.
According to Dan Shikanda, the club's chairman, AFC Leopards is facing a severe financial crisis, which has led to the departure of key players and coaches. The club has lost two crucial members of the team, including star midfielder Whyvonne Isuzza and Coach Andre Casa Mbungo, who left due to unpaid salaries.
Other players, including Moses Mburu, Ivan Ssekaza, Dennis Shikhayi, and Brian Marita, have also left the club, with some joining rival club Wazito FC. The club's financial woes have been exacerbated by the lack of a sponsor for the Kenya Premier League, which has been operating without a sponsor since the exit of betting giant SportPesa.
As a result, the league is facing a severe crisis, with Sony Sugar FC already relegated and Chemelil Sugar on the verge of being expelled. Pundits are predicting a downfall of the league if a new sponsor does not turn up soon.
Wazito FC's chairman, Ricardo Badoer, has hinted that his club may have to play in the Tanzanian League if the Kenya Premier League dies. The situation is a concern for the entire football community in Kenya, and it remains to be seen how the crisis will be resolved.
