Mvurya assures new Stars coach McCarthy of State support
CS noted that government has been deliberate in reforming football governance, strengthening technical leadership and investing in sports infrastructure
Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Salim Mvurya yesterday met with the newly appointed Harambee Stars Head Coach Benni McCarthy at his office in Nairobi.
Mvurya expressed confidence in McCarthy’s ability to transform the team, citing his experience at the highest level of football, including his role as a first-team coach at Manchester United.
“Benni, you have scored goals and unlocked tight defences in your playing days. We need you to bring that magic here and help unlock the full potential of our players,” he said, reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting the team, ensuring the necessary structures and resources are in place to deliver desired goals.
As CHAN 2024 and AFCON 2027 beckon, the ministry has expressed keenness on building a competitive national team capable of taking on the best in Africa and beyond. The CS noted that government has been deliberate in reforming football governance, strengthening technical leadership and investing in sports infrastructure to restore Harambee Stars’ former glory as a regional soccer powerhouse.
“We are happy with the strides made in football governance, and now with a strong technical bench, we are confident about the future. Our focus now shifts to ensuring that our boys are ready to compete and not just participate, in major tournaments,” Mvurya added.
Principal Secretary Peter Tum, who was also present, reiterated the ministry’s investment in sports infrastructure through the Sports academies countrywide and local leagues as a vehicle to nurture talent and a pathway to the national team. “A strong domestic league is the foundation of a great national team. We are working to ensure our stadiums meet international standards and provide our players with the best environment to train and compete, right from the grassroots level,” he said.
Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Mohammed Hussein emphasised that McCarthy’s appointment was a result of a rigorous selection process done in collaboration with the ministry. “The signing of Benni is a culmination of a thorough process done in conjunction with the Ministry on how to revamp our national team. I am happy and looking forward to greater things in the days to come,” Hussein, who was flanked by his deputy McDonald Mariga, noted.
McCarthy, who was accompanied by Goalkeeper Coach Joseph Moeneeb, expressed enthusiasm about his new role and his mission to elevate Kenyan football.
“I am determined to take Kenya to the World Cup and other major competitions. We have incredible talent here, and my focus will be on harnessing it, tapping into the local leagues, and giving the best players a platform to shine internationally,” McCarthy stated.
The former FC Porto striker first assignment will be against Gambia away mid this month and is scheduled to meet Kenyan football fans with a home game against Gabon on March 24th at the renovated Nyayo Stadium for match-day six of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.
