The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has entered into a seven year contract with Azam Media Limited Company to broadcast live Kenya Premier League (KPL) matches.
The seven year contract is worth 9.1 million dollars (approximately Sh1.3 billion and will later be distributed to the teams participating in the league to help them in their operations.
Speaking at a Nairobi hotel, FKF President Mr. Nick Mwendwa said that the federation has been experiencing challenges in finding a broadcasting partner and negotiating for a contract and now this contract with Azam will help take Kenyan football to the next level.
“The contract is one million dollars for rights increasing by a hundred thousand dollars every year in the seven years,” added Mwendwa.
Football clubs participating in the Premier League have expressed relief with the signing of the contract which now overcomes the challenge of being unable to showcase their talents.
The clubs also believe that the contract will help solve their financial crisis which they have been facing especially during the season.
Speaking at the same time, Azam Media KenyaGeneral Manager Mr Martin Abuya expressed the company’s passion in promoting local talent, content and building local sports.
“We have done so in Tanzania by broadcasting their league matches which has been a success and we hope to do the same in Kenya,” Abuya said.
Azam Media, which has several channels that air live coverage for international and local league matches, has promised to set aside a channel known as ‘AzamSports 4HD’ that will be dedicated solely for airing KPL matches and other related content.
Also speaking during the event, Azam Media Limited Company Chief Operating Officer (COO), Mr Yahya Mohamed stated that the firm is aware of the need and importance of investing in sports and entertainment in Kenya.
He added that broadcasting these matches live will encourage sports tourism and therefore boost the country’s economy.
Mohamed recognized the efforts of the previous partners who did their part in broadcasting the league and promised to continue improving on the weaknesses and take the league to the next level.
“People can also enjoy watching the matches using their smartphones by downloading Azamtv Max from anywhere in the country,” he remarked. He urged Kenyans to purchase the Azam TV decoders so as to watch KPL matches that will be aired live.
By Shamim Kambi
