FOOTBALL AT THE GRASSROOTS: THE INFORMAL SETTLEMENT STORY

The Dark Tunnel of Kenyan Football in Informal Settlements (Slums)

Football Made Me Series | Facts and Figures at the Base of the Pyramid

As I write this, I am also reflecting on my journey of more than 25 years in grassroots football. Interestingly, many of the observations I have made over the years remain constant.

Through the Football Made Me Series, as I document stories, experiences and realities of football at the grassroots, particularly in informal settlements, I have come to realise a number of things.

One of the most interesting findings is that the football journey of some of the most talented players in informal settlements does not necessarily begin in an academy or an organised team. In many cases, it starts organically, without structure, formal coaching or deliberate talent identification.

Here are some of my observations at the base of the football development pyramid.

1. WHERE IT ALL BEGINS: U10–U12

At this age, boys mostly play football informally. You will find them playing on the streets, during school breaks and in any available open space.

For many, joining a football team happens through an invitation from a friend rather than a formal talent identification process.

At this stage, organised coaches and academies are not necessarily positioned to identify or reach all the available talent.

2. THE LATE START FOR GIRLS: U12–U14

Girls often start playing organised football at a relatively late stage, mostly between U12 and U14.

Unlike boys, there are fewer opportunities for girls to engage in informal street football. There are also fewer teams and structured pathways available to connect them with organised football.

Without early opportunities, guidance and continued support, many girls eventually drop out around U16 due to social and economic challenges. At this age, football also becomes more demanding in terms of commitment, resources and competition.

3. LIMITED PARENTAL AND GUARDIAN INVOLVEMENT

Between U10 and U15, many parents and guardians are not actively involved in their children's football development.

Only a select number of teams have systems, structures and strategies designed to engage parents and guardians as important stakeholders in a young player's development.

4. THE FEDERATION GAP

At U10–U12 level, there is very little federation involvement in organised grassroots football.

A handful of community organisations and emerging academies take the initiative to organise and manage these age groups.

However, between U15 and U23, there is still a significant gap in consistent federation-supported league structures. What exists in many areas is largely tournament-based engagement, with occasional leagues that are not consistently available across the country.

5. LIMITED PARENTAL AWARENESS OF TALENT

The majority of parents and guardians of children aged U10–U12 are not necessarily aware of their children's football abilities, skills or potential.

Our observations suggest that fewer than 5% actively attend matches or consistently follow their children's participation in tournaments and friendly matches, both home and away.

This raises an important question: How can parents support a football journey they are not actively following?

6. ACCESS TO BASIC FOOTBALL EQUIPMENT

Less than 1% of parents and guardians have purchased their children a pair of quality football boots or a personal football for practice.

Access to basic equipment remains a challenge for many young players in informal settlements.

For some, the opportunity to own a pair of football boots is still a dream rather than a basic part of their football experience.

7. FOOTBALL AS A CAREER: THE PARENTAL PERCEPTION

Between U10 and U23, many parents and guardians do not necessarily view football as a serious career or a viable long-term opportunity for their children.

Their perception often changes only when a child achieves a visible milestone, such as:

1. Receiving a national team call-up.

2. Travelling abroad for an international tournament.

3. Representing their school in a major championship.

4. Securing a football scholarship.

This suggests that many families recognise the potential of football only when there is visible evidence of achievement or an immediate opportunity.

8. THE EXIT POINT: WHY YOUNG PEOPLE DROP OUT

Between the ages of 15 and 35, many young people gradually drop out of football for various reasons.

Some of the factors include:

1. Family relocation and changes in living circumstances.

2. Peer pressure.

3. Lack of evidence that football offers a promising future.

4. Years of playing without financial incentives or meaningful opportunities.

5. Crime and exposure to negative social environments.

6. Injuries.

7.Drug and substance abuse.

8. Poverty and financial constraints.

Lack of support from parents, guardians or their current clubs.

For many, the decision to quit football is not necessarily because they have lost their passion or talent. Sometimes, the environment and circumstances make it difficult to continue.