Victor Wanyama, the former Harambee Stars captain, has shared his vision for transforming Kenyan football, drawing on his extensive experience and global connections. Wanyama, who made history as the first Kenyan to play in the English Premier League through his stints at Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur, has built a career that has not only seen him succeed at the highest levels but also provided him with valuable insights into the international football scene.
As he enters the latter stages of his playing career, Wanyama is determined to use his platform to elevate Kenyan football. He has expressed a strong desire to leave a lasting legacy by helping to improve the standards of the game in his home country. With his vast experience and connections, he believes he can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Kenyan football and ensuring that local players have the opportunity to succeed on the global stage.
Wanyama’s commitment to giving back is evident in his past involvement in community projects, youth development, and supporting local talents. He has always been keen to use his position to help others, particularly those who are just starting out in their football careers. “Football has opened doors for me, and I feel a responsibility to give back,” Wanyama said. He believes that the passion for football in Kenya is undeniable, but there are significant barriers that prevent the country’s football from reaching its full potential.
One of the major challenges that Wanyama highlights is the lack of proper infrastructure in Kenya. He acknowledges that while the country is brimming with untapped talent, the lack of adequate facilities and investment in grassroots football has held back progress. Despite this, Wanyama remains optimistic about the future, emphasizing that if the right structures and resources can be put in place, Kenyan football has the potential to thrive.
Wanyama’s vision extends beyond simply playing; he is eager to be actively involved in the development of football at all levels in Kenya. He has expressed his willingness to collaborate with the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and local clubs to help bring about the necessary changes. Wanyama believes that the establishment of proper structures, including better facilities and more investment in youth development, is crucial to the long-term success of Kenyan football.
The lack of infrastructure has been a persistent issue for Kenyan football, and Wanyama believes that addressing this challenge could unlock the country’s full potential. He is passionate about seeing more Kenyan players make their mark on the global stage, and he sees his own experience as a valuable resource that can help others achieve similar success. “If we can fix these things, the future of Kenyan football can be very bright,” he stated, underscoring the importance of investing in the future of the sport.
In addition to his plans to contribute to the development of Kenyan football, Wanyama is also focused on his own playing career. After ending his nearly five-year stint at MLS club CF Montreal, he is currently searching for a new club. However, he is not ready to retire just yet. Wanyama remains deeply passionate about the game and is committed to continuing his career as long as he is physically able. “Football is my life, and as long as I’m fit and able, I will keep going,” he said, showing that his love for the sport is as strong as ever.
Wanyama’s dedication to both his career and the development of Kenyan football is a testament to his commitment to his country and the sport that has given him so much. His efforts to improve the game in Kenya could pave the way for future generations of players, and his involvement in grassroots initiatives and collaboration with the FKF could help bring about the much-needed changes to elevate Kenyan football to new heights. As he looks toward the future, Wanyama’s legacy as both a player and a mentor will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the sport in Kenya.
