This archive report was first published on 11 May 2020.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect the world, Kenyan footballers have received a much-needed boost from the Ministry of Sports and Football Kenya Federation (FKF). In a recent initiative, FKF partnered with betting firm Betika to provide a Sh5.3 million package for players in the Kenyan Premier League and National Super League.
According to reports, each of the 36 clubs was asked to submit the names of 25 players and five officials in need of assistance. The clubs complied, and the aid was distributed to the players, with Gor Mahia captain Kenneth Muguna and Nairobi City Stars counterpart Anthony Kimani representing the clubs at the handover ceremony.
Each player received Sh5,000, a gesture that was met with appreciation from the footballers. Muguna expressed gratitude, saying, 'Thank you Betika and FKF for this kind gesture towards us.' Kimani added, 'We feel appreciated. Never before has football been suspended to this extent and this token, though not enough, will go a long way in cushioning us against the economic effects of the global pandemic.'
While the aid is a welcome relief, the footballers are still waiting for further assistance from the government. The Ministry of Sports and FKF had promised to provide help, and the players are patiently waiting for the promised aid to materialize.
