The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Deputy President and Presidential candidate, Doris Petra, has commended the federation’s strides in developing match officials and producing high-quality referees over the last eight years. Speaking ahead of the FKF elections scheduled for Saturday, December 7, 2024, Petra—who is vying to succeed outgoing FKF President Nick Mwendwa—outlined the federation’s achievements and pledged to continue building on its progress if elected.

Petra lauded FKF’s efforts in strengthening Kenya’s officiating standards, citing a remarkable increase in the number of FIFA-accredited referees under the federation’s leadership.

“Our efforts in developing match officials have yielded positive results, significantly increasing the number of FIFA-accredited referees in the country,” said Petra.
“While challenges remain, we are actively working to improve referee remuneration and elevate the overall standard of officiating.”

She highlighted that FKF, under the leadership of herself and Mwendwa, established a robust Referees Department led by FIFA-accredited referee Silvester Kirwa. During this time, the number of FIFA-certified referees in Kenya has grown from six to sixteen. This progress reflects a solid foundation in referee development at all levels of the game.

Petra acknowledged that FKF’s efforts in capacity-building have enhanced the qualifications of referees nationwide. However, she admitted that challenges, particularly in referee remuneration and timely payments, remain. She committed to addressing these issues through partnerships and structural reforms.

“We have done well in capacity building for referees across all counties, increasing the number of qualified referees countrywide. However, we acknowledge the challenge of improving referee remuneration and timely payments. I undertake to resolve this through the systems we’ve put in place and by seeking strategic partners to enhance payment packages.”

She also emphasized the need for integrity training to improve referees’ social standing and reputation, alongside workshops for coaches and club officials to reduce conflicts between them and referees.

“Beyond regular Physical Endurance Training (PET), we need to provide referees with workshops on integrity to change perceptions and make them better contributors to society. We also need to educate coaches and club officials on football rules to minimize altercations with referees.”

Petra, who has been Mwendwa’s deputy for the past eight years, is running for the presidency with Mwendwa seeking the deputy position. The elections, which have attracted seven other candidates, are expected to chart the future of Kenyan football. Petra expressed confidence in her ability to lead FKF to greater heights and pledged to continue with reforms that uplift Kenyan football.

“The results of our leadership are there for all to see. We are committed to making even more progress in key areas such as referee development, coaching education, and club management,” she stated.

ALSO READ: EALA games: Preparations complete as Mombasa County set to welcome over 1000 EAC representatives