McDonald Mariga has embarked on his role as the vice president of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) with a clear focus on reforming Kenyan football. In his first 37 days in office, Mariga has already set the tone for what could be a transformative period for the sport in the country. The former Harambee Stars midfielder, who made history as the first Kenyan to win the UEFA Champions League with Inter Milan in 2010, is now channeling his experience and winning mentality into football administration.
Mariga’s election alongside FKF president Hussein Mohammed has generated significant optimism among players and stakeholders. Many are hopeful that Mariga’s firsthand experience as a professional footballer will bring much-needed reforms to the game. His unique background, having played at the highest levels in Italy’s Serie A and Spain’s La Liga, places him in a strong position to bridge the gap between players and management. His understanding of the challenges faced by players gives him the insight needed to address their concerns effectively.
One of Mariga’s primary focuses is improving player welfare, an area that has long been a source of frustration for Kenyan footballers. Former national team defender James Situma, now president of the Kenya Footballers’ Welfare Association (KEFWA), expressed confidence in Mariga’s ability to bring about positive change. Situma highlighted Mariga’s understanding of the struggles players face, such as attending national team assignments without allowances. With Mariga now in a position of influence, there is hope that these issues will be addressed and that players’ rights and needs will be prioritized.
Mariga’s appointment comes at a critical time for FKF, as the federation is under pressure to restore credibility following years of turmoil under the previous administration. The federation’s reputation has suffered, and many are looking to Mariga and the new leadership to restore stability and trust. His experience in international football, coupled with his deep understanding of the game, positions him well to navigate these challenges and set the federation on a path to success.
One of the immediate challenges Mariga faces is preparing the Harambee Stars for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. Kenya has been drawn into a tough Pool A alongside Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Zambia. The group is widely regarded as one of the toughest in the tournament, with DRC and Morocco having a strong history in AFCON. However, Mariga remains confident in the ability of the Harambee Stars to compete against Africa’s best teams. He believes that, despite the tough competition, Kenya can hold its own and that the team will be well-prepared for the challenge.
Mariga’s belief in the squad is bolstered by Kenya’s strong record against Morocco at home, which he hopes will inspire both the players and the fans ahead of the continental showdown. His confidence is a key part of his leadership style, and he is working hard to ensure that the team is ready to perform at the highest level.
Beyond the senior team, Mariga is also focused on strengthening Kenya’s youth football structures. The country’s recent success at the youth level, including the U-17 women’s team qualifying for their first-ever FIFA World Cup and the U-20 men’s team securing a spot in the 2025 AFCON, highlights the untapped potential of Kenyan football. Mariga has emphasized the importance of consistent investment in grassroots tournaments and youth academies to create a sustainable pipeline of talent. By developing young players and providing them with the right resources and opportunities, Mariga hopes to build a strong foundation for the future of Kenyan football.
In his first 37 days in office, Mariga has laid the groundwork for long-term reforms while also addressing urgent issues such as player welfare, youth development, and preparations for international competition. His ability to deliver on these fronts will be the true test of his leadership. If he can successfully navigate these challenges and bring about meaningful change, Mariga could help usher in a new era for Kenyan football, one that is built on a foundation of professionalism, accountability, and success.
