Kenya FA President Hussein Mohammed Breaks Silence on Benni McCarthy Work Permit Delay

• Kenya's football leadership has addressed the administrative issue surrounding the former Bafana Bafana striker and his coaching staff
• The federation's president has explained why the process has taken longer than expected and what happens next
• Benni McCarthy has also faced questions over his assessment of Kenya's chances against Africa's leading football nations

Football Kenya Federation president Hussein Mohammed has provided an update on Benni McCarthy’s work permit saga, confirming that the applications are progressing again after setbacks. McCarthy, who took charge of the Harambee Stars in March 2025, and members of his technical team have reportedly been without permits since arriving in the country.

Speaking to CGTN Africa, Mohammed clarified that issuing work permits falls under the Kenyan government’s jurisdiction, not the football federation’s.

Hussein Mohammed explains Benni McCarthy work permit delay

Mohammed acknowledged that the process had hit difficulties but expressed confidence it would be resolved.

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"As you may well know, the federation doesn't issue work permits. That is under the purview, of course, of the government," he said, according to KickOff.

"But all the applications have been done and it's a process."

He added:

"It's unfortunate that along the way, maybe a ball or two were dropped in that process, but it's back on track and I'm sure it's something that will be resolved in no time."

His comments suggest the applications have progressed, although he did not provide a specific completion date.

Benni McCarthy faces criticism over Kenya's AFCON ambitions

The permit issue comes as McCarthy faces scrutiny from some Kenyan supporters over his assessment of the national team's prospects.

The former South African international recently acknowledged the challenge Kenya would face in competing for the Africa Cup of Nations title against established sides such as Morocco, Egypt and Senegal. He pointed to differences in resources and squad quality.

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Some supporters reportedly reacted negatively to his assessment, with calls for his dismissal emerging amid questions about the team's performances.

Kenya FA president backs McCarthy amid pressure

Despite the criticism, Mohammed indicated that the federation remained committed to supporting its personnel.

"Well, we have had, of course, the issues that have arisen over time, but you have got to trust your team. So you've got to have trust in your team that they will be able to deliver," he said.

He stressed the importance of empowering people working under the federation and reviewing shortcomings to improve future performance.

For McCarthy, resolving the permit issue remains an important administrative matter as he continues his work with the Harambee Stars. Mohammed's comments indicate continued institutional support, while the timeline for finalising the applications remains unspecified.

Source: Briefly News