- Kenyan footballers are abandoning local leagues for Somalia’s Premier League, attracted by promises of higher salaries
- With salaries ranging from KSh 80,000 to KSh 100,000, Somali clubs are luring Kenyan players with lucrative deals, raising concerns about the long-term impact on Kenya’s football development
- While some players highlight the competitive football and improved player welfare in Somalia, coaches and observers in Kenya worry about losing talent
Kenyan footballers are flocking to the Somali Premier League enticed by the promise of lucrative salaries, leaving behind the comforts of their homeland for what they perceive as “greener pastures.”
Despite Somalia’s reputation for instability and security concerns due to the presence of the outlawed terror group Al Shabaab, Somali clubs have managed to attract a significant number of Kenyan players in recent years.
This trend has raised eyebrows within the Kenyan football community and sparked discussions about the motivations behind such moves.
Follow our Facebook page for more updates:
According to reports, more than ten players from both top-tier and second-tier clubs in Kenya have made the leap to Somalia in the last two transfer windows.
Additionally, the Somali Football Federation has actively pursued the naturalization of Kenyan-born players for both junior and senior national teams.
Must Read:
1: Kenyan Lady Who Played Football Back In Thika Emerges Top Chef In US, Thrives
2: Young Teen Sucker-punches Opponent During Basketball Game
One such player, Erick Odhiambo, formerly of Gor Mahia Youth team, opted to leave Kenya for Somalia after receiving what he described as a “lucrative deal” from a Somali club.
Odhiambo cited timely payments and competitive football as factors that influenced his decision to make the move.
Similarly, Omar Mwandaru, who previously played for Ulinzi Stars, emphasized the financial incentives offered by Somali clubs and dismissed concerns about safety, stating that he has not encountered any security issues since relocating.
Follow our Facebook page for more updates:
While the allure of higher salaries appears to be the primary driving force behind these transfers, some voices within the Kenyan football community have raised concerns about the long-term impact on the development of the sport in the country.
Charles Bruno, a coach at Kisumu All Stars, expressed worry about losing promising talents to Somalia and called for measures to address the situation.
Follow our Facebook page for more updates:
Despite these concerns, players like Danson Kiprono, who returned to his boyhood club Zoo FC after a stint in Somalia, highlight the positive aspects of playing in the Somali league, including a focus on player welfare and the overall growth of football in the country.
