The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has issued a statement addressing claims that Kenya’s boys’ and girls’ U15 teams were stranded in Uganda after the African Schools Football Championship.
Reports circulating online alleged that the young players had been left without accommodation or proper support. However, in a statement released on Thursday evening, December 11, FKF dismissed the claims, offering a detailed explanation of the events.
According to the federation, the teams checked out of their accommodation as scheduled but faced delays in transport to the airport, which disrupted their travel plans. Because junior teams are not allowed to travel at night under Ministry of Education safety guidelines, the late schedule meant they could not proceed with their planned departure.
As a result, the teams were required to remain at the host school overnight to comply with the safety rules.
Despite the setback, FKF clarified that at no point were the teenagers abandoned or without assistance. CECAFA and St. Mary’s Kitende reportedly stepped in to ensure the Kenyan delegation had everything they needed.
“CECAFA and St. Mary’s Kitende ensured that the teams were fully supported throughout this period. CECAFA has since informed CAF of the situation and confirmed that the welfare, comfort, and safety of the Kenyan delegation were prioritised while on site. The teams are now en route back to Kenya,” FKF said.
The federation added that logistics surrounding the team’s return have been resolved, and the players were already on their way home by the time of the announcement.
FKF also acknowledged the challenges that emerged during the assignment, noting that internal processes will be reviewed to strengthen coordination for future tournaments.
The Kenyan U15 teams were in Uganda for the CECAFA-CAF African Schools Championship, a major regional event featuring competitive matches, training camps, mentorship programs, and CAF-driven youth development initiatives aimed at nurturing future football talent.
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