Any person or organisation wishing to organise a football-related activity must first apply and get clearance from the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) before such an event can be allowed.
This is among the new rules the federation has published, and which organisers of all football events, especially at the grassroots, must adhere to, even as FKF seeks to regulate all football-related activities to ensure the safety of players.
The new move by FKF is in line with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Statutes, Articles 17 and 18, which obligate member associations to safeguard the integrity of the game by regulating football activities and ensuring protection against unapproved or unregulated football programs and competitions.
FKF said these new guidelines will take effect immediately, with the events targeted for regulation being player trials, training sessions or academies.
"Organisers of such events must submit a formal request to the FKF National Office 14 days before the scheduled date of the event. Organisers of tournaments at the grassroots level will have to liaise with relevant authorities going forward for their events to proceed," the federation said in a circular on Tuesday, June 10.
This came amid concerns over the rising number of unapproved football events, including those by private academies and trials for players wishing to travel abroad.
FKF pointed out that several individuals and organisations have been operating outside their framework, thereby undermining its authority and exposing players to safety risks.
"The Federation has taken note of organisations that have been organising and conducting football activities, including operating private football academies and conducting player trials without prior notice or written appraisal from FKF," the federation said.
When requesting approval for a tournament, the involved party must include the full details of the event, including its location, dates, names of participating teams and the documented safety measures to ensure.
Events taking place at the county level will also be subject to consultations with FKF branch representatives in that particular region. A copy of their request should also be shared to the nearest FKF Branch Office for local coordination.
The FKF noted that while its branch offices are supposed to receive a copy of the request, only the national office has the authority to approve or turn down football events.
Further, the Federation also clarified that it was improper for any individual, group or local branch to authorise football events involving FKF-affiliated players, clubs, coaches, referees, or venues without written approval from the National Office.
This latest directive is set to affect a series of stakeholders in the football realm, including sections of politicians who are passionate about the sport.
In recent times, particularly during the election period, politicians are infamous for organising football tournaments in their name in a bid to gain some mileage, while also promoting grassroots football.
