Kenyans set for World Cup frenzy as Azam TV secures broadcast rights

Kenyan football fans are set for a rich blend of elite commentary, tactical mastery and interactive fan engagement after Azam TV unveiled legendary broadcaster Bernard Otieno and decorated tactician Anthony “Modo” Kimani as key faces of its 2026 FIFA World Cup coverage.

Azam TV, which secured exclusive regional rights to air all 104 matches of the expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup, will beam the tournament live across Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Malawi, Zambia, Botswana and Zimbabwe from June 11 to July 19, 2026.

The broadcaster’s ambitious rollout promises not just football coverage, but a full East African football carnival stitched together with expert analysis, bilingual commentary, fan zones and live fan interactions.

Leading the microphone charge is Bernard Otieno, widely regarded as one of East Africa’s greatest football commentators and the first Kenyan journalist to commentate live at a FIFA World Cup. Having covered the 1998 World Cup in France and the historic 2010 edition in South Africa, Otieno brings a golden voice polished through decades of elite African football broadcasting.

Fresh from receiving FIFA recognition for his contribution to football journalism in Africa, Otieno said the partnership gives East African audiences a rare opportunity to enjoy a world-class football experience from a regional lens.

“This is an opportunity for Africa, and specifically East Africa, to enjoy the World Cup experience live through Azam TV,” said Otieno.

Otieno will headline Azam’s premium English commentary feed, with broadcasts also available in Swahili to widen accessibility across the region.

Alongside him is Anthony “Modo” Kimani, the cerebral football mind whose leadership once guided Mathare United to a historic Kenyan Premier League title before transitioning into top-level coaching.

The former Harambee Stars defender and current national team assistant coach will spearhead tactical analysis from Azam’s Dar es Salaam studios.

Known for his sharp reading of defensive structures and modern football systems, Kimani believes the expanded World Cup creates a massive platform for African nations to stamp authority on the global stage.

“With 10 African teams expected at the World Cup, this is a chance for the continent to show its true quality. Young players will also have the opportunity to rise and surprise the world,” said Kimani.

The former Tusker FC coach added that Azam’s interactive coverage model would revolutionize how fans experience the tournament.

“What excites me most is the live interaction with fans during matchdays and the opportunity to break down the game from a technical perspective,” he added.

Azam TV Country Head Ravi Kumal described the acquisition as a landmark moment for the broadcaster, revealing plans to establish bureaus across Kenya for live fan vox pops and matchday link-ups, alongside planned fan zones to elevate the viewing atmosphere.

“This is a huge milestone for Azam TV and for football fans across the region. We want our customers to positively embrace this experience as we continue investing in making it bigger and better,” said Kumal.

Kumal further confirmed that Azam TV was working closely with FIFA and specialised technical engineers to combat illegal streaming and piracy during the tournament.

For Kenyan viewers, Azam TV’s acquisition introduces a fresh and affordable pay-TV option at a time when national broadcaster is yet to finalise a free-to-air World Cup broadcast agreement.