World's governing body for football, FIFA, has lifted the financial sanction on Football Kenya Federation (FKF), clearing the way for the resumption of development funding under the FIFA Forward Programme.
FKF President Hussein Mohammed says the decision reflects confidence in ongoing reforms, citing improved governance, financial management and renewed focus on football development across the country.
In a letter dated December 15, 2025, FIFA informed FKF that its Governance, Audit and Compliance Committee (GACC), during a meeting held on December 8, 2025, had positively reviewed the Federation’s progress following the central audit review.
The Committee resolved that the standard release of FIFA Forward development funds be resumed immediately.
This sanction was lifted amid FIFA accusing FKF of introducing third party, the government, in handling its affairs such as handling of funds meant for different Kenyan teams which was against the FIFA football rules.
FIFA commended the positive steps taken by FKF in implementing the agreed action plan and the improved results recorded during the audit process.
While development funding has been reinstated, FKF will continue operating under a monthly reporting mechanism on the use of FIFA Forward funds until at least the next GACC meeting, scheduled for March 2026.
FKF President Hussein Mohammed welcomed the decision, describing it as a strong vote of confidence in the direction they are taking as a Federation.
“Step by step, we are fixing Kenyan football by strengthening governance, improving financial management, and restoring credibility at all levels,” he said.
Hussein Mohammed further emphasised that the outcome was the result of hard work, discipline, and collective responsibility by the FKF leadership and secretariat, pledging that the Federation would remain fully committed to meeting all FIFA requirements.
He added, “These resources will be used transparently and solely for the development of football in Kenya.”
The resumption of FIFA Forward funding is set to support FKF’s ongoing programmes, which focus on grassroots development, infrastructure improvement, capacity building, and the overall growth of football across the country.
By restoring these resources, FKF aims to accelerate the implementation of initiatives designed to enhance both the quality and reach of football in Kenya.
This decision comes after months of reforms by FKF aimed at strengthening governance structures, improving financial controls, and ensuring accountability at all levels of the organisation.
FIFA’s GACC review highlighted that the Federation had made tangible progress in addressing recommendations outlined in the central audit.
The Federation has committed to maintaining strict oversight of all funds received through the FIFA Forward Programme.
Monthly reporting will allow FIFA to monitor expenditure and ensure that all allocations are used effectively to develop the sport nationwide.
FKF reiterated its dedication to upholding the highest standards of governance, accountability, and financial integrity.
In a statement, the Federation said it would continue to work closely with FIFA to consolidate reforms, build trust, and deliver sustainable football development for players, officials, and fans across Kenya.
The reinstatement of funding is expected to bolster FKF’s capacity to execute a range of initiatives, including the construction and renovation of football facilities, training and certification of coaches and referees, and expansion of youth and grassroots programmes.
These efforts are aimed at improving both participation and performance in football at all levels, from local leagues to national teams.
FKF’s leadership expressed optimism that the removal of the sanction will strengthen confidence among stakeholders, partners, and the wider football community, and pave the way for long-term growth and stability in the sport.
Hussein Mohammed concluded, “We remain fully committed to meeting all FIFA requirements and ensuring that these resources are used transparently and solely for the development of football in Kenya.”
