The Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Hon. Salim Mvurya, alongside Principal Secretary for Sports, Eng. Peter Tum, today met with the newly appointed Harambee Stars Head Coach Benni McCarthy, marking a significant step in the revival of Kenyan football.
With CHAN 2024 and AFCON 2027 in sight, the Ministry is keen on building a competitive national team capable of taking on the best in Africa and beyond. The CS noted that government has been deliberate in reforming football governance, strengthening technical leadership and investing in sports infrastructure to restore Harambee Stars’ former glory as a regional soccer powerhouse.
“We are happy with the strides made in football governance, and now with a strong technical bench, we are confident about the future. Our focus now shifts to ensuring that our boys are ready to compete and not just participate, in major tournaments,” CS Mvurya added.
CS Mvurya expressed confidence in McCarthy’s ability to transform the team, citing his experience at the highest level of football, including his role as a first-team coach at Manchester United.
“Benni, you’ve scored goals and unlocked tight defenses in your playing days. We need you to bring that magic here and help unlock the full potential of our players,” he said, reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting the team, ensuring the necessary structures and resources are in place to deliver desired goals.
PS Tum reiterated the Ministry’s investment in sports infrastructure through the Sports academies countrywide and local leagues as a vehicle to nurture talent and a pathway to the national team. “A strong domestic league is the foundation of a great national team. We are working to ensure our stadiums meet international standards and provide our players with the best environment to train and compete, right from the grassroots level,” he said.
McCarthy, accompanied by FKF President Mohammed Hussein, FKF Vice President MacDonald Mariga, and Goalkeeper Coach Joseph Moeneeb, expressed enthusiasm about his new role and his mission to elevate Kenyan football.
“I am determined to take Kenya to the World Cup and other major competitions. We have incredible talent here, and my focus will be on harnessing it, tapping into the local leagues, and giving the best players a platform to shine internationally,” McCarthy stated.
FKF President Mohammed Hussein emphasized that McCarthy’s appointment was a result of a rigorous selection process done in collaboration with the Ministry.
“The signing of Benni is a culmination of a thorough process done in conjunction with the Ministry on how to revamp our national team. I am happy and looking forward to greater things in the days to come,” Hussein noted.
With Harambee Stars set to play in two weeks, the CS assured that government is working to ensure that the team plays its match at home as well a seamless experience for players and fans. McCarthy was also encouraged to embrace Kenya’s rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and the renowned Kenyan hospitality.
“Welcome to Kenya, a country of diverse cultures and great opportunities. We also speak English, but you might want to pick up some Swahili lines,” CS Mvurya quipped.
McCarthy’s first assignment will be against The Gambia away from home mid this month and is scheduled to meet the Kenyan football fans with a home game against Gabon on March 24th at the renovated Nyayo Stadium for match-day six of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.
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