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The Night Visa Turned an Ordinary Wednesday Into Disney Magic

LifeLately Reporter
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The Night Visa Turned an Ordinary Wednesday Into Disney Magic
The Night Visa Turned an Ordinary Wednesday Into Disney Magic

Some days simply refuse to go your way.

On Wednesday was one of those days. Everything felt overwhelming, and by evening, all I wanted was to go home and forget the day had happened.

Then something unexpected happened.

A payment notification came through, and with it, an invitation to experience something completely different not just a movie, but an exclusive premiere of Disney’s Moana live-action film before its official release in Kenya.

Just like that, an ordinary Wednesday transformed into one of the most memorable nights I’ve had in a long time.

There is something incredibly special about knowing you’re among the very first people to watch a film before the rest of the world. It feels like being let in on a beautiful secret. Add Disney magic to the mix, and you have an experience that reminds you why stories continue to bring people together across generations.

A Night of Adventure Before Everyone Else

The exclusive media screening, hosted by Visa Kenya in partnership with The Walt Disney Company Africa, gave invited guests an early look at Disney’s highly anticipated live-action adaptation of Moana, ahead of its official release in participating Kenyan cinemas on 10 July 2026.

The film reimagines the beloved animated classic, following Moana, played by Catherine Lagaʻaia, as she once again answers the ocean’s call. This time, she journeys beyond the reef of Motunui alongside the legendary demigod Maui, played by Dwayne Johnson, on an adventure filled with courage, family, self-discovery and hope.

Fans of the original animation will appreciate how the live-action version captures the heart of the story while delivering breathtaking visuals, emotional performances and an immersive cinematic experience.

The Night Visa Turned an Ordinary Wednesday Into Disney Magic
The Night Visa Turned an Ordinary Wednesday Into Disney Magic
More Than Just a Movie

What stood out most wasn’t only the film, it was the experience surrounding it.

There’s something refreshing about brands creating moments that people genuinely enjoy instead of simply promoting products. Visa’s collaboration with The Walt Disney Company Africa is a perfect example of how everyday spending can unlock experiences that create lasting memories.

As Sheila Changangu, Marketing Director for East Africa at Visa, explained, the partnership is about transforming ordinary card payments into meaningful moments that people will remember long after the credits roll.

It’s a reminder that loyalty can be rewarded in ways that go beyond discounts or cashback. Sometimes, the reward is simply creating a magical evening with family or friends.

Why Kenyan Families Should Be Excited

The timing couldn’t be better.

With the school holidays around the corner, Moana is set to become one of the must-watch family films of the season. Its themes of bravery, identity, resilience and following your own path resonate with audiences of all ages.

According to Trushna Buddhdev-Patel, Managing Director of Crimson Multimedia Ltd, the film deserves to be experienced on the big screen, where viewers can fully appreciate its stunning visuals, powerful soundtrack and immersive storytelling.

And after watching it, I couldn’t agree more.

Turning Everyday Payments Into Extraordinary Moments

Visa’s partnership with The Walt Disney Company Africa goes beyond hosting one exclusive screening. The collaboration gives Visa cardholders unique opportunities to enjoy blockbuster entertainment through exclusive access, immersive activations and memorable experiences.

It’s an interesting shift in how brands engage consumers today. Rather than simply facilitating transactions, they’re creating moments that people associate with joy, connection and unforgettable memories.

Paying with a Visa card remains seamless and secure, but now, it could also become your ticket to experiences you never expected.

My Final Take

I walked into the cinema hoping to escape a difficult day.

I walked out smiling.

Sometimes, all it takes is a great story, a little Disney magic and an unexpected opportunity to completely change your mood.

If you’re planning a family outing or simply looking for your next cinema adventure, Moana is worth adding to your list.

After all, some journeys begin with nothing more than saying “yes” to an unexpected invitation.

SHA, DHA Defend Digital Claims System Amid Concerns

Kipkemboi Collins
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SHA, DHA Defend Digital Claims System Amid Concerns

The Social Health Authority (SHA) and the Digital Health Agency (DHA) have assured Kenyans that healthcare claims and payments under the Taifa Care programme continue to be processed in line with the law, dismissing concerns raised over the management of the country’s digital claims system.

In a joint statement, the two institutions said the healthcare financing system remains operational and compliant with the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023, despite recent media reports questioning the role of private firms in processing claims.

 

SHA Clarifies Roles in Claims Processing             
The agencies stressed that no private company receives, controls, or pays out funds meant for hospitals on behalf of SHA.

According to the statement, SHA is solely responsible for receiving, reviewing, approving and paying eligible claims submitted by contracted healthcare providers.

DHA, on the other hand, provides the digital infrastructure that enables hospitals and health facilities to submit and process claims electronically and securely.

The clarification comes as Kenya continues implementing its digital health transformation agenda under Taifa Care, which seeks to improve efficiency, accountability, secure patient verification and faster claims processing across the healthcare system.

SHA, DHA Defend Digital Claims System Amid Concerns
SHA, DHA Defend Digital Claims System Amid Concerns

Digital Platform Supports Healthcare Delivery
SHA explained that the Taifa Care system operates on integrated digital platforms developed under a government contract with the Safaricom Consortium.

The contract also permits the engagement of specialised subcontractors where necessary, in accordance with Kenya’s procurement and contracting laws. The authority further addressed concerns surrounding the 2% service fee linked to the digital platform.

It said the charge is provided for under the Digital Health Act, 2023, and related regulations. The fee supports electronic claims processing, patient verification, secure sharing of health information across healthcare facilities, and automation of administrative processes.

SHA noted that the system reduces paperwork, manual processing and delays while lowering administrative costs for healthcare providers. It added that the fee only applies to claims that have already been approved for payment.

 

Commitment to Transparency
The authority urged healthcare facilities to submit complete and accurate claims documentation, obtain required pre-authorisations where applicable, and ensure banking details are up to date to facilitate timely payments.

SHA also said it continues to support healthcare providers through training, technical assistance and ongoing system improvements aimed at reducing claim delays and rejections.

Both SHA and DHA reaffirmed their commitment to transparency, accountability and continued engagement with healthcare providers, the media and the public to ensure Kenyans receive accurate information on the implementation of Taifa Care.

Senate Committee Rejects Nandi County Financial Statements

Kipkemboi Collins
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Senate Committee Rejects Nandi County Financial Statements

The Senate’s County Public Accounts Committee (CPAC) has rejected the Nandi County Executive’s financial statements for the 2024/25 financial year, citing serious omissions and inaccurate reporting that undermine their credibility.

The committee concluded that the statements failed to comply with public sector financial reporting standards and did not present a true and fair view of the county’s financial position.

It has now directed Governor Stephen Sang to take administrative action against officers responsible for preparing the accounts, citing professional negligence.

 

Audit Raises Questions Over County Finances
The findings stem from the Office of the Auditor-General’s review of the county’s financial statements for the year ending June 30, 2025.

Auditors flagged the failure to disclose key financial information, including opening bank balances, outstanding employee and supplier payables, funds held in bank accounts, and the true status of the county’s debt.

Although Governor Sang told the committee that part of the county’s debt had been settled, he failed to provide supporting documents identifying beneficiaries or the amounts paid.

Committee Chair Moses Kajwang’ criticized the county’s submissions, saying the responses failed to address concerns raised by the Auditor-General.

“This Statement does not provide a true and fair view of the Nandi County Executive,” Kajwang’ said, adding that the committee had serious doubts about the accuracy and reliability of the figures presented.

Senate Committee Rejects Nandi County Financial Statements
Senate Committee Rejects Nandi County Financial Statements

Unexplained Variances Deepen Committee Concerns
Among the most significant concerns was the county’s failure to disclose expenditure amounting to approximately KSh 1 billion during the financial year.

The audit also identified an unexplained variance of KSh 278 million in trade and other payables, which county officials were unable to reconcile.

Further scrutiny revealed an unreconciled variance of KSh 62.9 million relating to refundable deposits and prepayments. While the Statement of Financial Position reflected a nil balance, supporting schedules showed otherwise.

The committee also questioned the whereabouts of the KSh 62.9 million, which was expected to remain ringfenced in the County Revenue Fund.

Nandi Senator Samson Cherargey described the inaccurate financial statements as a case of professional negligence, saying the county had breached public financial reporting requirements by failing to disclose material information.

He also faulted the county for failing to provide a schedule of pending bills or a register of retained funds, making it impossible to verify beneficiaries or outstanding obligations.

 

Troost-Ekong: Africa Can Go Further at the World Cup Despite Nigeria’s Absence

LifeLately Reporter
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Troost-Ekong: Africa Can Go Further at the World Cup Despite Nigeria’s Absence
Troost-Ekong: Africa Can Go Further at the World Cup Despite Nigeria’s Absence

Former Super Eagles captain says Morocco’s success has inspired the continent as Africa continues to challenge football’s traditional powers.

Former Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong believes Africa is closer than ever to producing another FIFA World Cup breakthrough, even as he admits watching the tournament without the Super Eagles has been difficult.

Speaking during the ongoing FIFA World Cup, Troost-Ekong said Nigeria’s absence remains a source of disappointment. However, he believes the performances of African teams show the continent has what it takes to compete with the world’s best.

“I would have loved to see Nigeria there because, when you watch the African teams performing so well, you cannot help but think Nigeria would also have put in a strong performance,” he said.

Nigeria Must Learn from Missing Out

Troost-Ekong said missing another World Cup should serve as a turning point for Nigerian football rather than a setback.

He believes the current squad has the quality and experience needed to compete at the highest level but says improvements in preparation will be essential ahead of the next qualification campaign.

“We need to reflect on our preparation and identify what needs to change in order to reach the next level ahead of the next World Cup,” he said.

“The players will continue working hard, sharing ideas and doing everything possible to improve.”

He added that the issue has never been a lack of commitment from players but rather the need for structural improvements that can help Nigeria return to football’s biggest stage.

Troost-Ekong: Africa Can Go Further at the World Cup Despite Nigeria's Absence
Troost-Ekong: Africa Can Go Further at the World Cup Despite Nigeria’s Absence
Africa Closing the Gap

While disappointed by Nigeria’s absence, Troost-Ekong says Africa’s overall performance at the tournament has given him renewed optimism.

According to the former defender, the gap between African teams and football’s traditional powerhouses continues to narrow.

“At the last World Cup, Morocco broke down those barriers and showed everyone what is possible,” he said.

“Based on what we have seen so far, many African teams and players have demonstrated that they can compete with the very best in the world.”

He believes this year’s tournament could produce another historic milestone for African football.

“I am very hopeful that this could be the World Cup where an African team goes even further than Morocco did.”

Morocco Carries Africa’s Hopes

Troost-Ekong believes Morocco remains the continent’s strongest contender to make another deep run in the tournament.

“Morocco is definitely the first team that comes to mind,” he said.

He also praised Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire for their performances despite their early exits.

“Senegal and Ivory Coast both did exceptionally well until their eliminations, and they were a bit unlucky,” he added.

As Morocco prepares to face France in the Round of 16, Troost-Ekong believes the North African side carries the hopes of an entire continent eager to surpass its previous World Cup achievements.

A Different Experience in South Africa

Away from the football, Troost-Ekong says working as part of SuperSport’s FIFA World Cup broadcast team has allowed him to experience South Africa differently.

Unlike previous visits as a player, he has had the opportunity to explore the country beyond training grounds and stadiums.

“It has been great being part of the SuperSport team and meeting some amazing current and former players,” he said.

Although he joked about the colder weather, the former Super Eagles captain said he had enjoyed South Africa’s food, music and culture during the tournament.

“I have enjoyed some great food, listened to good music in all the right places and had one or two drinks since it is my off-season,” he said.

Eyes on Africa’s Next Chapter

As the tournament enters its knockout stages, Troost-Ekong believes African football is entering a new era built on stronger squads, greater experience and growing belief.

While Nigeria’s absence continues to sting, he remains convinced the continent is edging closer to its greatest achievement on football’s biggest stage.

For Troost-Ekong, Morocco’s journey represents more than one nation’s ambitions. It is another opportunity for African football to prove it belongs among the world’s elite.

High Court Upholds Cabinet Appointments, Orders Gender Compliance Within 120 Days

Kipkemboi Collins
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High Court Upholds Cabinet Appointments, Orders Gender Compliance Within 120 Days

The High Court has upheld the nomination, vetting and appointment of Cabinet Secretaries (CSs) following the dissolution of Cabinet during the 2024 Finance Bill protests, dismissing a petition that sought to invalidate the current Cabinet.

The case challenged President William Ruto’s decision to reappoint several Cabinet Secretaries after dissolving his Cabinet at the height of the nationwide demonstrations.

A majority decision by Justices Eric Ogola and Stephen Githinji, alongside a dissenting opinion by Justice Jairus Ngaah, reaffirmed the President’s appointment powers and the National Assembly’s constitutional role in approving Cabinet nominees.


Court Clears Reappointment of Former Cabinet Secretaries
The majority held that dissolving the Cabinet did not permanently disqualify former Cabinet Secretaries from serving again. According to the judges, the President’s decision to dissolve the Cabinet was a political and administrative reorganisation rather than a disciplinary action.

Since no findings had been made that any of the reappointed CSs violated Chapter Six of the Constitution on leadership and integrity, they remained eligible for fresh appointments.

Justice Ngaah, however, disagreed. In his minority judgment, he argued that where public officials are removed due to incompetence or poor performance, such circumstances could undermine their suitability for reappointment, particularly where the President had publicly acknowledged shortcomings in the Cabinet’s performance.

High Court Upholds Cabinet Appointments, Orders Gender Compliance Within 120 Days
High Court Upholds Cabinet Appointments, Orders Gender Compliance Within 120 Days

National Assembly Vetting Process Upheld
The court also dismissed claims that the National Assembly conducted an inadequate public participation exercise during the vetting process.

Petitioners argued that Parliament provided insufficient time for public input, failed to disclose adequate information and excluded objections raised against some nominees.

However, the judges found that Parliament substantially complied with constitutional requirements. They ruled that requiring objections to be submitted through sworn affidavits was a legitimate safeguard that promotes accountability and ensures allegations presented before the Appointments Committee are supported by evidence.

Opposition Appointments Allowed, Gender Rule Violated

On the inclusion of opposition leaders in Cabinet, the majority ruled that political affiliation is not a constitutional barrier to appointment. The judges noted that Kenya’s Constitution does not establish an official opposition as a constitutional institution and instead relies on separation of powers and institutional checks and balances.

Justice Ngaah differed on this issue, arguing that participation of political parties in government should occur only through coalition agreements or mergers as provided under the Political Parties Act.

Despite dismissing most of the petition, the court unanimously found that the current Cabinet violates the Constitution’s two-thirds gender principle under Article 27. The President has been directed to reconstitute the Cabinet to meet the constitutional gender requirement within 120 days of the judgment.

 

Beldine Odemba Calls for Unpaid Allowances Ahead of WAFCON 2026.

Kipkemboi Collins
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Beldine Odemba Calls for Unpaid Allowances Ahead of WAFCON 2026.

Harambee Starlets Head Coach Beldine Odemba has urged the government and football authorities to address outstanding player allowances, saying the Harambee Starlets need proper motivation as they prepare for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

Speaking during an interview, Odemba revealed that the players are yet to receive allowances from Kenya’s two matches in Zambia during the FIFA Series tournament held in June.

The coach said she rarely speaks publicly about financial matters but felt compelled to raise the issue on behalf of her squad.

“I never speak about this, but the girls have not received their last allowances for the past two matches. They need something to motivate them,” she said.


Coach Seeks Equal Support for Women’s Football
Odemba also appealed for greater support from the country’s leadership, expressing hope that the team would receive the same level of recognition and backing as the men’s national team.

She noted that the players had requested that the President personally see them off before their upcoming assignment, saying such a gesture would boost morale.

“They’ve asked that the President sees them off. It means support. We hope we can be treated the same way as the men. We hope the leadership, especially in the sports sector, can rally funds behind us and give us good motivation,” she said.

The Harambee Starlets are in preparations for the 2026 WAFCON, with the tournament set to run from 26 July to 16 August 2026 in Morocco. The opening match will be played in Rabat, which will also host the final.
Beldine Odemba Calls for Unpaid Allowances Ahead of WAFCON 2026.
Beldine Odemba Calls for Unpaid Allowances Ahead of WAFCON 2026.

Junior Starlets Inspire Senior Team
Odemba also congratulated the Junior Starlets for their recent impressive performances, saying their success has become a source of inspiration rather than pressure for the senior squad.

She praised the young team for coming within 90 minutes of another major achievement and urged fans to turn out in large numbers to support them at Nyayo Stadium.

“They have really made us proud. We trust they will do even better at home with the home fans. I’m rallying fans to come to Nyayo Stadium and support the Junior Starlets,” she said.

According to Odemba, the Junior Starlets’ achievements have strengthened belief within the Harambee Starlets camp.

“It is not pressure. It is motivation. It is showing us that we can and that it is possible. If it is pressure, then it is good pressure because it has brought a lot of positivity into the camp,” she added.

 

Victor Wanyama: Kenya Must Invest in Young Talent to Compete Globally

Kipkemboi Collins
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Victor Wanyama: Kenya Must Invest in Young Talent to Compete Globally

Former Harambee Stars and Tottenham player Victor Wanyama has urged Kenya to strengthen investment in grassroots football, saying the country must develop young talent through structured pathways if it hopes to compete consistently at the highest level.

Speaking ahead of the official launch of the Wanyama Football Academy in Nairobi later this month, the former Harambee Stars captain said proper player development begins at the academy level and cannot be rushed.

According to Wanyama, young footballers need a clear progression from grassroots football to the professional game, with each stage playing a vital role in their growth.

“I’m very excited because I know what it takes to go through the early-stage academy, getting those training from academy. It’s very important to have the structure right from grassroots until professional because you cannot skip,” he said.

He compared football development to the natural stages of childhood, noting that players require gradual and consistent progression to reach their full potential.

“Even when the baby is growing up, first of all they start to crawl and then after they walk. So having this structure is so important to our young generation so that when they follow all the steps then it can be easier for them to adapt in the European football,” he added.

Victor Wanyama: Kenya Must Invest in Young Talent to Compete Globally
Victor Wanyama: Kenya Must Invest in Young Talent to Compete Globally

Academy Targets Long-Term Player Development
The Wanyama Football Academy is expected to provide young players with professional coaching, mentorship, and a structured development programme aimed at preparing them for careers in elite football.

The initiative reflects Wanyama’s ambition to give aspiring footballers opportunities similar to those that shaped his own career before he went on to play in Europe.

Widely regarded as one of Kenya’s most successful football exports, Wanyama rose through local football before earning moves to Europe, where he featured for clubs including Celtic F.C, Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur.

His success has made him a strong advocate for investing in youth development. Wanyama believes stronger grassroots structures will not only improve individual player development but also raise the overall standard of Kenyan football.

With the academy set to open its doors in Nairobi this month, he hopes it will become a platform for nurturing the next generation of Kenyan footballers and creating a sustainable pathway to professional football both locally and internationally.

 

DCI Reassures Kenyans of Security Ahead of Planned Demonstrations

Kipkemboi Collins
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DCI Reassures Kenyans of Security Ahead of Planned Demonstrations

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has assured Kenyans that security agencies are fully prepared to protect lives and property as the country braces for planned demonstrations.

In a public statement, DCI sought to calm growing concerns among citizens questioning whether it would be safe to open businesses, take children to school, or go about their daily activities.

The DCI emphasised that its core mandate remains unchanged, protecting life, safeguarding property and preserving peace across the country.


Peaceful Protest Protected, Criminal Activity Warned Against
DCI reaffirmed that every Kenyan has a constitutional right to move freely, assemble lawfully, and express themselves peacefully.

However, it cautioned that these freedoms should not be exploited as cover for criminal activities such as looting, destruction of property, intimidation, violence, or attacks on innocent members of the public and businesses.

According to the DCI, law enforcement officers will be deployed across affected areas to maintain order and respond decisively to anyone who threatens public safety or disrupts peace.

The statement serves as both an assurance to law-abiding citizens and a warning to individuals who may intend to take advantage of the demonstrations to commit crimes.

DCI Reassures Kenyans of Security Ahead of Planned Demonstrations
DCI Reassures Kenyans of Security Ahead of Planned Demonstrations

Heightened Security Operations Expected
Security agencies are expected to maintain a visible presence throughout the day, with officers tasked with preventing violence and protecting public and private property.

The DCI said anyone found engaging in acts that endanger lives, damage property, or undermine public order will face firm action in accordance with the law.

The agency’s message comes amid heightened public anxiety over the potential impact of the planned protests on businesses, transport, and other essential services.

Beyond security deployments, the DCI has called on Kenyans to remain alert and cooperate with law enforcement officers.

Members of the public have been urged to report any suspicious activity, criminal behaviour, or attempts to incite violence before situations escalate.

 

Njoroge Kibugu Claims Fourth Leg of the PGK Equator Tour in Nyali

LifeLately Reporter
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Njoroge Kibugu Claims Fourth Leg of the PGK Equator Tour in Nyali
Njoroge Kibugu Claims Fourth Leg of the PGK Equator Tour in Nyali
 
He posted an impressive total of 269 (15 under par), defeating a field of 49 players to claim the victory.
Muthaiga’s Njoroge Kibugu claimed victory at the fourth leg of the ongoing PGK Equator Tour after producing a superb four-round total of 269 (15-under-par) at Nyali Golf & Country Club in Mombasa. Njoroge outplayed a strong field of 49 golfers to secure the title.
The win in Nyali saw Kibugu climb to seventh on the PGK Equator Tour Order of Merit with 1,290 points. Safaricom-backed Samuel Njoroge continues to lead the standings with 2,377 points, followed by Dismas Indiza on 1,890 points and Greg Snow in third with 1,720 points.
“It was a great tournament, and I am pleased with how I played. The competition was very tough, and I am delighted to come away with the win. This victory gives me confidence heading into the next leg of the tour, and I hope to maintain this momentum and continue competing at a high level,” said Kibugu.
Njoroge Kibugu Claims Fourth Leg of the PGK Equator Tour in Nyali
Njoroge Kibugu Claims Fourth Leg of the PGK Equator Tour in Nyali
Greg Snow finished runner-up on a four-round total of 279 (5-under-par), while Daniel Nduva claimed third place after returning an aggregate score of 280 (4-under-par).
Rounding out the top 10 were Malik Taimur (282), Safaricom-sponsored players Mutahi Kibugu (284), and Samuel Njoroge (286), David Wakhu and Edwin Mudanyi, who tied for seventh on 287, while Michael Karanga and Isaiah Otuke shared ninth place after finishing on 288.
With four legs now completed, the PGK Equator Tour moves to Ruiru Sports Club for the fifth event of the season, where players will continue battling for valuable Order of Merit points in the race for qualification to the 2027 Magical Kenya Open and the 2028 Olympic Games.
 

Is This Finally Africa’s Time at the FIFA World Cup?

LifeLately Reporter
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Is This Finally Africa’s Time at the FIFA World Cup?
Is This Finally Africa’s Time at the FIFA World Cup?

Every four years, the same question returns: Could this be Africa’s year?

The FIFA World Cup has always sparked hope across the continent. Fans dream of seeing an African nation go further than ever before. Yet those dreams have often ended in heartbreak, with narrow defeats, controversial moments and the lingering feeling that Africa’s breakthrough was just one match away.

This time, however, something feels different.

With a record 10 African nations competing at the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup, the continent isn’t just making up the numbers. African teams are arriving better prepared, tactically stronger and backed by years of investment that are beginning to pay off.

Success Built Long Before Kick-Off

Football success doesn’t begin on match day. It starts years earlier in academies, training centres and youth development programmes.

Over the last decade, many African countries have quietly transformed how they develop football talent. Governments, football federations and private investors have invested in better facilities, coaching and player development, creating pathways that allow young footballers to compete at the highest level.

Morocco remains the standout example.

Its historic run to the World Cup semi-finals in Qatar in 2022 was no accident. It was the result of years of investment in youth development, world-class coaching and modern football infrastructure.

That success inspired other African nations to follow a similar path.

Côte d’Ivoire and DR Congo Show What’s Possible

The early stages of the 2026 tournament have already offered encouraging signs.

Côte d’Ivoire produced an impressive display against Germany. Although the Elephants narrowly lost 2-1, they matched one of football’s traditional powerhouses for much of the game.

More importantly, they looked organized, disciplined and confident qualities that have become increasingly common among Africa’s leading teams.

DR Congo has also captured attention.

Making its first World Cup appearance in more than 50 years, the Leopards earned a hard-fought draw against Portugal. Rather than relying on moments of individual brilliance, the team impressed with its tactical discipline, defensive organization and resilience.

These performances reflect years of careful planning rather than short-term success.

Is This Finally Africa's Time at the FIFA World Cup?
Is This Finally Africa’s Time at the FIFA World Cup?
Football Is Becoming Big Business

Behind every successful national team is a growing football ecosystem.

Across Africa, football is increasingly attracting investment from governments, businesses and international partners. Private academies continue to produce elite talent, while stronger domestic structures help players transition into Europe’s top leagues.

This creates a cycle that benefits everyone. Better development produces better players. Better players raise the profile of African football. Greater visibility attracts more investment, creating even stronger foundations for future generations.

Football has become more than a sport. It has become an industry capable of creating jobs, attracting investment and inspiring millions.

A New Era for African Football

The expanded World Cup certainly gives Africa more opportunities to compete. But additional qualification places alone do not explain the continent’s growing competitiveness.

The bigger story lies in the systems that now support African football.

Morocco showed the world what was possible in 2022. Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire and DR Congo now appear ready to follow that example.

For the first time in decades, African football is building success on long-term planning instead of isolated moments of brilliance.

Could History Be Made Again?

The tournament is still unfolding, and football always has room for surprises.

Yet one thing already feels certain: Africa is no longer chasing a dream built on hope alone.

It is building one through investment, better coaching, stronger academies and a clear vision for the future.

Perhaps the biggest question is no longer whether an African nation can reach another FIFA World Cup semi-final.

It may simply be which one gets there next.

By Elisha Kamau

Public Relations Manager at MultiChoice Kenya, a Canal+ Group company.

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