Football Kenya Federation have underscored the significant threats posed by match-fixers.
“Unscrupulous syndicates are consistently seeking ways to infiltrate our game and coerce players or officials into manipulating matches. We must remain vigilant against the dangers of match-fixing,” said FKF integrity officer, Mike Kamure.
He spoke at Kasarani Stadion Hotel during an Integrity Workshop for Premier League side Talanta FC team members.
The workshop focused on the prevalent issue of match-fixing in football. The federation plans extensive match-fixing education across all Kenyan clubs and match officials as a measure to curb the vice.
During his opening address, Kamure highlighted global instances where players and referees have been bribed to manipulate games, emphasising the substantial sums of money involved.
“The allure of quick cash is often exploited by fixers, making it tempting for unsuspecting players. However, we must safeguard the ethical integrity of our beloved sport,” he emphasised.
The workshop delved deeply into the various techniques utilised by fixers to approach players, such as establishing friendships and exploiting players’ financial needs.
Guidance was provided to players on identifying warning signs of fixers’ approaches and firmly resisting any advances.
The team was sensitised on the strong reporting protocols available to them in the event they face match-fixing approaches.
Recognising the impact of the workshop, Talanta FC’s head coach, Ken Kenyatta, acknowledged that there was a sense of more awareness of how match-fixing jeopardizes the game and also how players are better equipped to reject fixers.
He also went on to pledge to remain vigilant against any approaches directed at the team.
