The Kenya Football Fans Federation (KEFOFA) are calling on the government and other well-wishers to fund their trip to Malawi to support Harambee Stars' World Cup qualifier matches against Burundi and Ivory Coast.
Due to ongoing renovations at Kenya's two major stadiums, the match has been relocated to Malawi with Stars taking on Burundi on June 7 and Ivory Coast four days later on June 11.
The Kenyans are placed in Group F and face tough competition from Ivory Coast, Gabon, Gambia, Burundi and Seychelles.
Kefofa CEO Shem Okottah said they have secured one bus and are targeting a fleet of seven to ferry fans to Malawi for the matches.
"We want to gather as many sponsors as possible to ensure our fans can support the national team. Currently, we have one bus to ferry fans. Our target is to get seven buses before next week," said Okottah
He also pointed out that they plan to stay in Malawi for both games.
"We will be there for five days to support Harambee Stars in both qualifiers. We aim to give our national team morale that will boost their chances of qualification," added Okottah.
Kefofa, who are recognised by the Ministry of Sports, have been championing football support for 60 years. They mobilise fans, ensure stadium safety and represent the national team brand.
Their recent exploit outside Kenya was during the 2019 Afcon tournament in Cairo, Egypt, where they mobilised 70 fans to travel with government and Sport Pesa backing.
Harambee Stars failed to go past the group stages in the 2019 tournament, ending the group stage matches with three points. Okottah said they currently lack a financial support system.
"Kefofa do not have a funds kitty and is not sponsored by anyone. It is run on our own good will. We are raising funds through the sale of the t-shirts for Sh3,000. We also receive some support from some of our members," Okottah noted.
The federation also criticised the FKF for hosting a cup final between AFC Leopards and Kenya Police in a high-risk stadium, which led to the abandonment of the match after an official was injured.
Kefofa president Francis Liboyi stated: "The decision was ill-advised. Police Sacco Stadium is unsuitable for high-risk matches involving AFC, Gor Mahia and Shabana."
