Former Harambee Stars and Gor Mahia midfielder, Sammy Owino ‘Kempes,’ has articulated why he is the ideal candidate to assume the role of President at the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) in the upcoming early next year elections.
Currently based in the United States, where he oversees a 32-acre academy in Texas comprising seven fields and 700 players, Owino plans to reinvest in Kenya with the goal of nurturing the next generation of football stars.
The former Gor Mahia player emphasized that Kenya possesses significant football potential, waiting to be harnessed by visionary leaders.
“I believe I possess the requisite experience and qualifications,” Owino conveyed during an interview with Walk With Sagini. “When you examine Kenya, we face a shortage of infrastructure, which I am currently addressing,” he added.
“I’ve accomplished this before in the USA; we lack youth infrastructure, which I have developed over the years. We lack coaching education infrastructure, which I have also established over the years. I believe I possess the necessary knowledge to advance football in our home country.
“When you compare me to those who have held office in the past or those vying for the upcoming elections and evaluate our experience, I have a wealth of knowledge that sets me apart.”
Holder of a U.S. Soccer Federation Level A coaching license, Owino built his AYSES Academy in Texas, United States, from the ground up, currently boasting over 700 players and seven fields on a 32-acre plot of land.
Owino has pledged to enhance infrastructure levels if elected as the new federation president, emphasizing that the country’s footballers have long lacked adequate facilities to elevate their game.
“There are different tiers of infrastructure, including stadiums being constructed for the AFCON, but there is infrastructure that we can establish for use by FKFPL clubs and our youth to develop their skills.
“When you assess our highest level of infrastructure, it is not at an optimal state, and I believe I possess the necessary expertise. I will collaborate with the government to ensure that the requisite knowledge is put in place.
“Deep-rooted issues, such as corruption, persist. You may find that funds allocated for stadium construction exist but are unaccounted for. Whoever assumes the presidency must have influence to ensure accountability, and I believe I have the experience required to elevate our football to the next level.”
