Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Salim Mvurya speaking during a press briefing in Nairobi.
By Peace Muthoka
Nairobi, April 15, 2026 — Kenya is gaining fresh momentum in its bid to grow football and attract global attention, as top African football leaders gather in Nairobi for the FIFA Series.
Speaking during a press briefing in Nairobi, Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Salim Mvurya said the high-level visit signals rising confidence in Kenya’s capacity to host major sporting events and drive the game forward.
He noted that the delegation, which includes federation presidents and senior officials from across Africa, is in the country for both matches and strategic talks on the future of football. As a result, Kenya is not only hosting games but also positioning itself at the centre of key decisions shaping the sport on the continent.
At the same time, Mvurya said the engagements are creating space for knowledge exchange and stronger collaboration. He explained that sharing experiences with other nations will help Kenya sharpen its policies, strengthen talent development, and improve the overall sports ecosystem.
Meanwhile, the visiting officials toured stadiums and training facilities, where they commended ongoing upgrades. According to Mvurya, the improvements are part of a long-term plan to build modern infrastructure that can support local talent while meeting international standards.
In a major boost, Kenya is also exploring plans to host a regional football federation headquarters in Nairobi. Mvurya revealed that discussions are already underway, with technical teams working to finalize the requirements needed to make the proposal a reality. If successful, the move would further cement Nairobi’s status as a continental sports hub.
Looking ahead, the government is keen to build on these partnerships as preparations gather pace for the Africa Cup of Nations 2027. Mvurya said insights from visiting federations will be key in ensuring Kenya delivers a successful and memorable tournament.
On the pitch, excitement is building as Harambee Stars prepare to feature in the FIFA Series matches, alongside other international teams. The tournament marks a historic moment, being the first time Kenya is hosting the series.
Mvurya called on fans to turn out in large numbers, describing the event as a rare opportunity to showcase the country’s potential while inspiring the next generation of footballers.
With growing international recognition and renewed investment in sports, Kenya is steadily strengthening its place in Africa’s football landscape.
