FKF Implements VAR in Kenyan Premier League, Cutting Controversial Decisions by 78%

The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) completed nationwide rollout of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology across all Kenyan Premier League (KPL) matches on February 8, 2025—becoming the third East African nation to do so. Funded by a KSh 220 million grant from CAF’s *League Excellence Programme*, the system covered 12 stadiums, with centralized review units in Nairobi. An FKF audit showed a 78% reduction in overturned match outcomes due to clear errors (e.g., offside goals, red card misses). The first VAR-awarded penalty—converted by AFC Leopards’ Allan Wanga against Gor Mahia—went viral for its flawless execution. Critics cited cost sustainability, but fan trust rose: 89% of fans polled supported its retention. CAF invited Kenya to co-host a regional VAR training summit in 2026.