The Council of East and Central African Football Associations (CECAFA) has expressed disappointment following Kenya’s last-minute withdrawal from the ongoing four-nation tournament in Karatu, Tanzania.
CECAFA Executive Director Auka Gecheo confirmed that the tournament will proceed as scheduled, despite Harambee Stars pulling out after arriving at the match venue.
“We find Kenya’s withdrawal to be unfair, especially after extensive efforts were made to meet the Federation’s requests,” Gecheo said in an official statement.
The tournament kicked off today with the opening match between hosts Tanzania and regional rivals Uganda.
CECAFA reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the quality and organisation of its competitions, even amid setbacks such as Kenya’s withdrawal.
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In a separate statement, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) attributed the decision to pull out to the national team’s technical bench, led by Head Coach Benni McCarthy.
The coaching staff reportedly assessed the local conditions and deemed them unsuitable for proper preparation and competition.
FKF announced that the team would return home immediately to resume preparations for the upcoming 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), which will run from August 2 to 30.
The CHAN tournament will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, and FKF emphasized its renewed focus on ensuring Harambee Stars are in peak form for the continental event.
