FKF moves to clarify Kenya U15 teams’ stranded situation in Uganda

Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has issued an official statement addressing the widely circulated reports and images showing Kenya’s U15 boys’ and girls’ teams stranded overnight in Uganda during the African Schools Football Championship. 

The situation had sparked public concern after photos of players sleeping on floors and benches surfaced online, prompting questions about the delegation’s welfare and logistical planning.

According to FKF, the teams checked out of their accommodation on December 10,2025 as scheduled, expecting transport to arrive for their return trip to Nairobi. However, a delay in the arrival of the buses disrupted the itinerary, causing the delegation to miss the window for same-day travel. 

The Ministry of Education regulations prohibit night travel for junior teams, meaning the Kenyan contingent could not proceed with the journey.

With no immediate alternative accommodation arranged at the time, the young players remained at the host school, St. Mary’s Kitende—a situation that aligned with the distressing scenes that circulated online.

FKF clarified that once the delay became apparent, CECAFA and St. Mary’s Kitende stepped in to support the teams, ensuring their safety, comfort, and access to necessary facilities overnight. CECAFA has since submitted a report to CAF outlining the events and confirming that the Kenyan players’ welfare had been prioritised.

Behind the scenes, the incident highlighted deeper logistical and operational challenges that had affected the teams even earlier in the tournament.

Both squads had endured a taxing 13-hour road journey to Uganda shortly before their opening fixtures—a factor many believe contributed to their early group-stage exit.

The combination of travel strain and coordination gaps raised concerns about the preparedness and planning surrounding youth national team assignments.

In its statement, FKF acknowledged shortcomings in coordination during the trip and announced that it is reviewing its internal processes to strengthen future planning, transportation logistics, and team support structures. 

The federation has expressed appreciation to CECAFA and the Ugandan hosts for stepping in when the delay occurred and reaffirmed its commitment to providing safe, well-organised environments for all youth national teams.

With the situation now resolved and both teams en route back to Kenya, FKF says it will continue engaging stakeholders to prevent similar incidents in future.