Popular Arsenal fan channel AFTV has praised the passion and loyalty of Kenyan football supporters, describing the country as one of the club's most vibrant fan bases globally.
Speaking during an interview on Saturday with Radio Generation's
Sports Garage
in Nairobi, AFTV presenter Cecil Thomas said the enthusiasm displayed by Kenyan Arsenal fans, including organising celebratory parades similar to those held in London after winning the English Premier League (EPL), had inspired the team to return and stage a special event in the capital.
Cecil said the group had been impressed by videos showing Kenyan supporters recreating Arsenal's title celebration atmosphere, a move he described as a reflection of the deep connection local fans have with the English Premier League club.
"We saw the videos and on top of that, that's why we are here as well because we have the parade that we are going to be doing here in Nairobi," Cecil said.
"Seeing Kenya and other countries in Africa replicating what we were doing over in London was phenomenal. It shows the passion of the people in Kenya and that is why we love returning, seeing those fans and sharing these momentous moments."
He added that AFTV was eager to engage with supporters during the planned Nairobi parade.
"That's why we are here and that's why we have our own planned parade, which I can't wait for," he said.
AFTV founder Robbie Lyle also spoke warmly about Kenya, describing it as a special destination and highlighting the strong relationship the platform has built with local football fans over the years.
"Kenya is such a special country. I love the vibe in this country. It is a very special part of Africa," Lyle said.
He noted that Kenya is the first African country AFTV has visited more than once, underlining the significance of the local fan base to the organisation.
"This is the first African country we've come back to twice. We have done a lot of African countries — Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Uganda and Ethiopia — but it's great to be back in Kenya," he said.
The remarks highlighted Kenya's growing reputation as a major football market in Africa.
AFTV founder Robbie Lyle(right) with presenters Kenyah Lyle(centre) and Lee Judges(left) during an interview at Radio Generation on August 1, 2026. PHOTO/Rg
Arsenal remains one of the most popular football clubs in Kenya, with supporters regularly gathering in cities and towns across the country to watch matches and celebrate major victories.
The AFTV crew is in Kenya for a six-day tour starting today, August 1, 2026, that shifts the spotlight from football to digital content creation, as he seeks to inspire young Africans to build successful careers online.
Lyle's visit, supported by Safaricom, Nairobi Serena Hotel and BuyMeSoda, combines football, digital innovation and youth entrepreneurship through a series of events designed to connect aspiring creators with some of the biggest names in fan-led sports media. The tour has been organised by London-based events promoter Ken Mathiu.