Kenya lost 2-1 to hosts Gabon in their first match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier
Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba has offered an apology to thousands of Harambee Stars fans who tuned in to the national broadcaster KBC to watch the 2026 World Cup qualifier between Kenya's Harambee Stars and Gabon only to be met with other shows on the channel.
Before the match, Ababu had taken to his social media accounts to mobilize fans to follow the proceedings on the National broadcaster but half an hour into the match, it being apparent that KBC would not view the match after all due to a technical glitch.
"Last night KBC Channel 1 TV let down Kenyan fans with satellite difficulties that occasioned failure to screen the Harambee Stars game vs Gabon in Franceville. We owe Kenyans a sincere, unequivocal and unambiguous apology for this disappointment. You sure deserve better. POLENI SANA!," Ababu posted.
Kenya began the match on the right footing with Masid Juma netting the first goal in the 40th minute.The hosts replied through Denis Bouanga at the hour mark but more disappointment would face the Stars fans as Red Star Belgrade's Guelor Kanga stunning shot in the dying minutes of the game gave Gabon a crucial win.
While seeing them off on a chartered plane, CS Ababu Namwamba promised Harambee Stars KES 2.5 Million for every 3 points earned during 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.
In the other group match, Burundi overcame Gambia 3-2 while giants Ivory Coast welcome Seychelles at the Stade Olympique Ebimpé on Friday evening.
From Gabon, Harambee Stars will head to Seychelles for their second match on Monday 20th November.