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CAF A coaches convened at the Kenya Institute of Special Education for a crucial integrity workshop led by Mike Kamure, the Integrity Officer of the Football Kenya Federation.

The primary focus of this session held on Friday was the pervasive issue of match-fixing in football.

Match fixing understanding

The workshop fostered interactive discussions among coaches, aiming to enrich their understanding of match-fixing and strategies for its prevention. Participants openly shared their experiences, creating a collaborative learning atmosphere.

The attention was squarely on identifying warning signs and acquainting coaches with fixers’ tactics, including building connections and exploiting players’ financial vulnerabilities.

Coaches received strong advice to unequivocally reject any advances from match-fixers or their representatives, with a clear emphasis on promptly reporting any suspicious activities.

The workshop highlighted the crucial role coaches play in upholding the integrity of the sport.

Notably, this marked the third workshop, with FC Talanta and Vihiga having previously undergone similar sessions.

The backdrop includes last year’s provisional suspension of Ezekiel Odera and Salim Abdallah by the Football Kenya Federation pending investigations into their alleged involvement in match manipulation.

Earlier in the same year, 15 players, including Tusker FC defender Isaac Kipyegon and former Nairobi City Stars midfielder Michael Madoya, faced suspension over match-fixing claims.

The suspended players, including five from Zoo FC in Division One and three from National Super League side Silibwet Leons FC, were subject to investigation.

Match fixing claims

In an official communication, FKF CEO Barry Otieno listed Du Monde Selenga Mangili, a Congolese national and former Shabana FC attacker who served as the head coach for Kericho FC

. Otieno cautioned all clubs against any contact with the suspended individuals during their suspension period.

FIFA and the FKF Integrity Department are actively involved in the ongoing investigation, aiming to unravel the truth behind the alleged match-fixing activities.

The FKF, having received confidential reports, is committed to addressing and eradicating such issues within the football community.