Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed has hailed the visit by FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe as a major milestone in the growth of the sport in the country.

In a statement posted on his X account on August 31, 2025, Mohammed described the occasion as a moment of pride and renewed optimism for Kenyan football.

“It was an honour to host FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe here in Kenya—from inspecting Talanta Sports City, to engaging at State House, and witnessing a thrilling #CHAN2024 final. I thank them for their support and confidence in Kenyan football. Together, we are building a future where our nation takes its rightful place at the heart of African and global football,” he said.

Global recognition

The visit, which included a tour of the under-construction Talanta Sports City and attendance at the final of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), is being seen as a vote of confidence in Kenya’s sporting ambitions. The presence of the global football chiefs highlighted international recognition of Kenya’s growing capacity to host continental and global events.

Mohammed noted that the discussions and inspections carried out during the visit underscored the country’s commitment to strengthening football infrastructure and governance. The FKF boss further pointed out that these engagements positioned Kenya on the right trajectory ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which the country will co-host.

Celebrating CHAN

Alongside the historic visit, Mohammed celebrated the successful hosting of CHAN 2024, which ended with Morocco’s 3-2 victory over Madagascar in a pulsating final. He congratulated Morocco for securing their third CHAN title and lauded Madagascar for their spirited performance throughout the tournament.

“With #CHAN2024 successfully concluded, the bar has been set high. Kenya has firmly cemented its place as the epicentre of African football, and we now look ahead with optimism to AFCON 2027,” he said, adding that the tournament showcased Kenya’s organisational capability and football passion to the world.

AFCON 2027

The FKF president expressed confidence that Kenya’s recent strides would be a springboard for greater achievements in the coming years. He emphasised that the partnerships forged with FIFA, CAF and other stakeholders were crucial in shaping a sustainable future for the game.

“The visit by Infantino and Motsepe, coupled with the successful CHAN 2024, has boosted morale and reinforced Kenya’s strategic positioning in African and global football,” Mohammed said.

As Kenya prepares for AFCON 2027, the federation is banking on improved infrastructure, enhanced technical development, and strengthened governance to usher in what many believe could be a transformative era for the sport in the country.