Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has moved to clarify the situation surrounding the Harambee Stars camp following concerns over outstanding allowances, welfare of players and the work permit status of head coach Benni McCarthy and members of his technical team.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, September 23, FKF acknowledged the concerns but said it remained engaged with the Ministry of Sports, players and the technical team to ensure the national team’s preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers remain on course.
The statement comes amid reports that some Harambee Stars players had raised concerns over unpaid allowances, accommodation and travel arrangements and had resolved not to train until their grievances were addressed. The players were also reported to be seeking an engagement with either President William Ruto or officials from the Ministry of Sports.
FKF, however, said the Ministry had confirmed that an outstanding payment relating to a previous Harambee Stars assignment had been cleared and was expected to reflect by Thursday. The federation added that other payments and allowances linked to national team preparations were at different stages of processing.
The federation said it was in regular communication with the Ministry and was working with the relevant offices to have the remaining matters resolved.
The issue of McCarthy and his technical team’s work permits has also emerged as a key concern. FKF confirmed that it was working with the relevant government agencies to process the required documentation, with the process still ongoing.
The federation further explained that the technical team’s work extends beyond national team camps, including monitoring domestic football and players across the country. It noted that the coach and members of his technical bench have travelled in and out of Kenya with Harambee Stars for international assignments.
The developments come just days before Kenya hosts Eritrea at Nyayo National Stadium on Saturday in the opening match of the two nations’ 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign. FKF’s official media platform lists the fixture for September 26 at Nyayo.
The federation has maintained that it appreciates the support of the Ministry of Sports and will continue engaging all stakeholders as the outstanding issues are addressed. Meanwhile, the focus remains on ensuring Harambee Stars can complete preparations for the Eritrea encounter without further disruption.
Kenya is also scheduled to face Guinea in Conakry on October 1, with South Africa completing the four-team qualifying group.
