Football Kenya Federation is in talks with Azam TV to finalise a lucrative deal that will pump millions into all local top-flight clubs.
FKF president Nick Mwendwa revealed that the Tanzania-based media house had agreed to look into ways of enhancing the financial muscles of Kenyan Premier League clubs.
He spoke while unveiling Azam as the official broadcast partner of the Kenyan Premier League during a colourful ceremony in a Nairobi hotel on Thursday.
"I can assure you that KPL clubs will pocket the kind of money that no other sponsor has given them in the past. It shall be bigger than before," Mwendwa said.
"We have already initiated talks and we shall soon call you to announce the good news once the deal is finalised," Mwendwa said.
Mwendwa disclosed plans to air some of the Kenyan Premier League matches at night once Moi Stadium, Kasarani, and Nyayo Stadium have been refurbished by the government.
"I'd like to ask you not to worry about the scheduling of matches. We are ready to broadcast the matches at night in the coming months," Mwendwa said.
"At the moment, only two Kenyan facilities can host night matches but there is a likelihood they might be closed for renovation. Once they are complete we shall now be able to play and air more matches at night.
Mwendwa said FKF envisages having a free-to-air TV that will transmit the matches alongside the Azam pay TV. "We shall be unveiling other partners next week," Mwendwa said.
“As a federation, we remain committed to the wholesome development of Kenyan football and as such, we shall continue seeking partnerships with like-minded companies with a view of increasing the commercial value of the league,” he added.
The FKF president said Kenyan sports fans had always raised concerns about the absence of live match broadcasters.
"I'm glad they are finally here with us. Our relationship with Azam TV began when they requested to air the Mashemeji derby between arch-rivals AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia. They paid up and we disbursed the proceedings of the transaction to all the KPL clubs," Mwendwa remarked.
The company plans to invest US$ 1,000,000 in the first season, with an increment of 10 percent annually. Under the deal, Azam Media will air four matches in every round on their Pay TV and Digital platforms.
Speaking at the launch of the partnership, Azam Media LTD Chief Operating Officer (COO) Yahya Mohamed reiterated the company’s commitment to delivering unparalleled viewing experiences to audiences in Kenya and across the region.
“Football has an incredible ability to inspire generations and unite the world. Through this partnership, we are not just broadcasting matches, we are sharing stories of dedication and belief in Kenyan football,” Yahya said.
“This collaboration between Azam Media Limited and the FKF is a testament to our shared commitment to nurturing talent, fostering unity, and creating memorable experiences for football fans across the region,” he added.
