Kenya to face Zanzibar in CECAFA Beach Soccer Champs opener

After two postponements attributed to logistical issues, the Council of East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA) has now confirmed that the tournament will take place from July 16 to 20, 2025.

In a press release shared on their social media pages, CECAFA Executive Director Auka Gecheo reaffirmed Kenya’s readiness, stating, “We shall now have the Championship run July 16-20, 2025 in Mombasa, Kenya.”

The tournament will feature seven nations, CECAFA member associations Kenya, Burundi, Tanzania, Uganda, Zanzibar, and guest teams Seychelles and Malawi.

Kenya, pooled in Group A alongside Malawi, Burundi, and Zanzibar, will kick off their campaign on July 16 against Zanzibar.

They will face Burundi in their second fixture on July 17 before closing their group stage action against Malawi.

Group B features Tanzania, Uganda, and Seychelles.

The top two teams from each group will proceed to the semi-finals on July 19, with the third-place playoff and final slated for July 20.

The tournament also comes at a time when major developments have been initiated by Football Kenya Federation (FKF) in promoting beach soccer by unveiling a title sponsor for the Kwale Beach Soccer League in May.

Earlier this year, Kenya’s team, led by their team manager Billy Mwangemi, travelled to Uganda for a series of friendly matches as part of beefing up their preparations.

The exposure is expected to boost their chances at the continental event, especially with the home crowd backing them in Mombasa.

With the final countdown now underway, all eyes are on the beach shores of Mombasa as Kenya aims to make a strong impression on home sand and lay a foundation for the future of beach soccer in the region.