Mariga has outlined his vision for football youth development in Kenya ahead of the finals of the FKF Youth League this weekend.
The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) is set to cap off an exciting season with the finals of the 2024 FKF Youth League scheduled for 25th and 26th January.
This event, which has grown significantly in its second edition, serves as a vital platform for nurturing and showcasing young football talent across Kenya.
Speaking ahead of the finals, FKF Vice President McDonald Mariga emphasised the federation’s commitment to building a robust foundation for youth football.
Sports CS Salim Mvurya has provided an update over the renovations of the Bukhungu and Kipchoge Keino stadia.
The league, which initially faced skepticism, has expanded to include 786 teams from six counties: Turkana, Kakamega, Kisumu, Nakuru, Mombasa, and Nairobi.
“We want to create more centers and see the youth league running regularly,” Mariga stated. “Our focus is on developing players for our national U13 and U15 teams.
“ Many will remember the U-17 Coca-Cola Cup that united young players and provided a platform for them to showcase their skills. We aim to create something even bigger, an initiative that identifies talent from every corner of the country and inspires young players to dream of a future in football.”
Mariga also emphasized the importance of instilling a winning mindset in the players. “We want to see them achieve what we did and even more.
)
Aboud Omar has adressed his infamous clash with the referee during the side’s 1-0 loss to Zanzibar during the Mapinduzi Cup earlier this year which resulted in the match official punching him in the face.
“They need to believe that they can become big players one day. Our mission is to nurture their potential and help them realize their dreams.”
This year’s league finals reflect the FKF’s growing influence, with matches set to take place at various centers across the country. Nakuru and Turkana will host their finals on Saturday, while Kakamega, Kisumu, and Mombasa conclude on Sunday.
Nairobi will split its finals across both days, with venues including Kariobangi North, Kayole Calvary, Baba Dogo, and Baba Dogo Center.
The FKF Technical Director, Michael Amenga, praised the league’s evolution from a modest initiative into a nationwide program operating in 15 centers.
)
Former Harambee Stars coach Jacob ‘Ghost’ Mulee has made a rallying call to CAF concerning the biennial CHAN tournament with regard to local-based African coaches.
“When we started, participation was low, and there was skepticism. But we’ve grown steadily, and the results are encouraging,” Amenga noted. “This league has become a critical stepping stone for young players to showcase their skills and attract scouts.”
Building on the success of its inaugural edition, the league has introduced an U17 category for both boys and girls this year, alongside the existing U13 and U15 categories.
Last year, Rodney Strikers emerged victorious in both the Boys U13 and U15 categories, while SJF and Ladies Musa clinched the Girls U13 and U15 titles, respectively.
The FKF Youth League’s expansion highlights the federation’s dedication to grassroots football development. With plans to extend the program to all 47 counties in Kenya, FKF is setting the stage for the next generation of football stars.
Match schedule
Saturday, January 25
Nairobi: Kariobangi North, Kayole Calvary, Baba Dogo
Turkana: Prison Grounds
Nakuru: Kisulisuli
Sunday, January 26
Nairobi: Baba Dogo Center
Mombasa: Serani Sports Grounds
Kisumu: Nyalenda Railways Grounds
Kakamega: Kakamega High School
