KEFWA, Baraza gearing up project seeking unity among former footballers

The Kenya Footballers Welfare Association (KEFWA), a union mandated to protect the rights and welfare of professional football players in the country, is gearing up an initiative to bring together former football legends in a bid to unite them under one umbrella that will address their challenges, and set up a smooth transition for life after football.

The mission of the project, dubbed as The Former Players Department, will be to unite former players, provide them with essential programs, and ensure they have a prosperous life after retirement.

Leading the initiative is former Kenya Premier League player and Golden Boot winner John Baraza, aiming to usher in a game changer for former football players.

“Under the support of our leadership, we recently held a crucial meeting with former players with the primary goal of addressing the challenges faced by these retired heroes,” Baraza told KEFWA Media on Monday. “We came together aiming to forge unity and establish a roadmap for how former players can benefit from the diverse programs offered by the union.”

As per the former KPL champion, the department’s foundation is set to be one that offers a voice that can effectively address the unique issues faced by former players, while emphasizing the importance of working harmoniously.

“One of the key takeaways from our meeting was the rallying call for more former players to come on board and register as members of KEFWA. Registration makes them eligible for a range of beneficial programs, opening doors to opportunities in various fields,” Baraza added.

As a proactive approach by the department to preventing the heartbreaking cases of former players struggling post-football due to lack of early preparations, it is hid intention to see players enroll in different programs and educational programs to allow a smooth transition into retirement.

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“It is a sad reality that the majority of our players after hanging the boots, their stardom disappears down the drain,” Baraza said. “However, after being done with active football, one can enroll in our programs including education courses in driving, baking, plumbing, electrical work, mechanics, business management, hospitality, coaching, refereeing, and even football agent training.

“KEFWA is committed to equipping former players with skills that will empower them to succeed in their post-football careers.”

Turning a blind eye to differences and coming together for a good course, remains the rallying call for Baraza, who will work alongside the association’s leadership in achieving success.

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“Former players have a vital role to play in shaping the future of the sport,” the former Sofapaka FC player added. “Two is always better than one and coming together as one voice empowers them to collectively tackle their challenges similar to how other workers in the country are protected under their respective unions. With the immense support and goodwill from our current leadership, KEFWA serves as the guardian of the players' interests.”

In addition, the union, under the leadership of James Situma (President), Terry Ouko (Vice-President), and Makori Chacha (Secretary General), has set up incredible measures that are bringing together professionals who have hung their boots.