After FKF made it clear that coaches will not be allowed to handle top-flight clubs without a CAF A license for the 2024/2025 season, the Federation has now stressed that that condition could be imposed on the National Super League soon.
FKF President Nick Mwendwa has warned that the tough rule imposed on the FKFPL this season requiring only coaches with a CAF A license -or it’s equivalent - to handle those clubs could soon be extended to the National Super League - the second tier of Kenyan football.
A directive issued by FKF and signed by the federation’s CEO Barry Otieno mandates that only coaches with the required license would be allowed to manage top-flight clubs from the start of this season.
The directive states, "Head Coaches must possess a 'CAF A' or other sister Confederation 'PRO or A' coaching license. Assistant Coaches must possess a minimum 'CAF B' or other sister Confederation 'Pro, A or B' coaching license."
By the end of the season, the clubs with coaches holding a CAF A License or its equivalent included Gor Mahia, Tusker FC, AFC Leopards, Kariobangi Sharks, Kakamega Homeboyz, Posta Rangers, Bidco United, Ulinzi Stars, Shabana FC, and Mathare United.
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However, Kenya Police, Nairobi City Stars, Bandari, Mara Sugar, FC Talanta, Murang’a Seal, and KCB, had coaches lacking the required license.
These clubs have begun making moves to comply with the directive. Kenya Police promoted Iddi Salim to head coach, with Salim Babu becoming assistant coach.
Bandari appointed Ken Odhiambo as head coach, with John Baraza reverting to an assistant role.
Clubs like Murang’a Seal are also considering using John Njogu as head coach, with Abdallah Juma as assistant. Afer KCB Appointed Patrick Odhiambo as head coach, poaching him from Kakamega Homeboyz, they are now considering re-appointing Edward Manoah.
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It remains to be seen how newly-promoted Mara Sugar and FC Talanta will address the situation, as none of their coaches currently possess the required badge.
The NSL presently requires only coaches with a CAF B license, but this could soon change.
"Very soon, because we have about 75 coaches with CAF A, and you have to have a CAF B license to coach in the NSL," Mwendwa said at the FKF Awards Gala last week. "Very soon, you will not be able to coach in the NSL without that license."
Mwendwa highlighted the growing importance of coaching qualifications in Kenyan football, citing the example of Musa Otieno. "Musa Otieno played over 100 times for us. We made him a Harambee Stars assistant coach. He was studying while in that role. Now he is an instructor. Across the country, coaching has become very big. Those people will make the talent you will see for us."
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Mwendwa also mentioned the financial support clubs receive, noting that each club receives 10 million shillings. "Every club is receiving 10 million shillings, but we do not talk about it. In England, you do not hear clubs talking about money, and we also prefer not to talk about it."
He acknowledged contributions from KBC and Azam, which have facilitated events and broadcasts.
"KBC contributed 6.5 million shillings to that kitty. Azam has made this gala possible.
“Three matches a weekend on pay TV and two more on KBC. Next season, they will be increased to seven a weekend. The season after that will be nine, and from there, we will look at the possibility for the women’s league as well."