FKF, NSL land massive boost as gaming firm injects sponsorship

Beleaguered Football Kenya Federation on Tuesday got a massive boost after signing a three- year sponsorship package with a local gaming firm.

Under the arrangement, the gaming firm will inject Sh90 million for the duration of the partnership with each of the 20 competing teams in the second-tier League  getting Sh750,000 annually and in-kind provision of balls, nets and other sports equipment.

Speaking at the event, FKF President Nick Mwendwa lauded the betting firm for coming on board at a crucial time.

“We as FKF we are so proud to launch another partnership with our NSL clubs and it’s our believe that it will really help in easing the clubs financial hardships as well increasing the competition in the league.”

According to Mwendwa,  the disbursement of the funds is set to begin immediately with Sh15 million set to be dedicated to clubs each season, with the remaining Sh15 million taking care of the federation’s costs.

“I know many people will question the Sh15 millio which will be dedicated to the federation, FKF need money to fund their daily planning and running of the league so I think that is understandable,” added Mwendwa.

The gaming firm’s head of commercial John Mbatia said that the partnership is the start of their commitment of giving back to the community through sports, art and culture with football being their key focus.

“Through our partnership with FKF we are hoping to improve the standards of football as well as nurture talent from grassroots to national level. We will be happy to see many players featuring in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers through the partnership. This is not the end but the start, so we have many good things to come not only with NSL but also other leagues including women.”

The league suffered a massive blow with the withdrawal of former electronic media company who for three seasons were the official broadcast partners and the betting firm’s deal comes at an opportune time for the cash-strapped federation.