FKF has put strict rules in place that could see a number of Premier League tacticians barred from the touchline next season.
Seven coaches in the Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) are at risk of losing their jobs due to lack of the required coaching diplomas.
This enforcement aligns with the club licensing requirements that the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has been implementing across all competitions in the country over the past few years.
Starting from Saturday, August 24, head coaches in the FKFPL will need to have a CAF A or other sister Confederation "PRO or A" coaching license to be on the touchline. Their assistants must possess a minimum of a CAF B or another sister Confederation "Pro, A, or B" coaching license.
"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," stated an FKF dispatch.
Currently, the clubs with coaches holding a CAF A License or its equivalent are Gor Mahia, Tusker FC, AFC Leopards, Kariobangi Sharks, Kakamega Homeboyz, Posta Rangers, Bidco United, Ulinzi Stars, Shabana FC, and Mathare United.
Gradual Implementation of Club Licensing Requirements
The FKF has been gradually rolling out the CAF Club Licensing requirements in the league. Last season, all top-flight teams were required to have a women’s team before being allowed to participate in FKF-sanctioned leagues.
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Starting next season (2024-2025), the federation will adopt the FKF Women Club Licensing Regulations and the National Super League Regulations for the mentioned leagues.
Club licensing, a regulatory system introduced by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), aims to ensure that football clubs engaged in CAF competitions meet specific standards and criteria encompassing various aspects, including sporting, infrastructure, administrative, legal, and financial considerations.
This strategic move is geared towards bringing professionalism to the sport.
Focus on Infrastructure and Player Welfare
The Club Licensing Regulations focus on improving infrastructural requirements. Clubs will now be required to meet infrastructure standards, including stadium availability, training facilities, and office space.
Highlighting the importance of player welfare and youth development, the regulations introduce criteria for medical care, safeguarding policies, and establishing youth teams. The goal is to foster a positive atmosphere for players on and off the field.
The regulations outline a revamped personnel and administrative structure for football clubs. Key figures such as a general manager, team manager, physiotherapist, head coach, and female coach are now mandatory appointments.
To ensure financial stability, clubs are now mandated to have dedicated bank accounts for club transactions. Stressing the importance of transparency and accountability, the regulations require clubs to submit audited annual financial statements.
The regulations also require clubs to submit legal documents proving their legitimacy. Ownership and control are scrutinized to ensure there are no conflicting interests.
Contracts with professional players must adhere to FIFA regulations, and clubs are encouraged to forge formal agreements between men’s and women’s football entities.