'If not for my mother…'-Barry Otieno’s heartfelt story of family, determination & dream for Kenyan football

Mothers are very special, and for former Football Kenya Federation (FKF) CEO , his mother’s sacrifices laid the foundation for his dreams in Kenyan football.

Otieno, who recently resigned from his role at ahead of the national elections scheduled for December 7, 2024, has opened up about his journey, marked by personal sacrifice and a dedication to the growth of Kenyan football.

As the firstborn in a family of four, Otieno his mother’s struggles firsthand.

Barry Otieno has been sharing his transformative Beyond the Pitch vision with FKF Premier League clubs ahead of 2024 elections.

In a recent interview with, he spoke candidly about how her determination and moral lessons guided him to where he stands today.

“I am the firstborn in a family of four, and I am very close to my mother. She went through many hardships to raise me, and while I can’t go into all the details, if it weren’t for her, you wouldn’t know Barry today,” Otieno shared emotionally.

«Though she wasn’t highly educated, she taught me strong morals. She would say, ‘My son, if you meet someone and get a bad feeling about them, don’t associate with them—that’s God protecting you.’»

Barry Otieno has pledged to revamp FKF governance by empowering branches and committees focusing on transparency, grassroots development, and reforms.

Otieno’s journey in football administration started in the communications department of FKF, where he rose to the rank of CEO after his predecessor, Robert Muthomi, resigned in 2019 amid controversy.

Otieno’s path has not been without challenges, yet he speaks with conviction about his belief in fair play and his commitment to football development.

“What I can say is that no one should judge me without facts. I’m not perfect, but I stood by every decision I made as CEO. I worked under the previous administration as an employee, and I don’t make enemies—I want to see the development of the game,” he explained.

“Whoever wins, if it’s not me, will have my support; if I do win, I will invite everyone to work together.»

Throughout his tenure, Otieno has overseen several significant milestones in Kenyan football.

Over the weekend, fan frustrations boiled over into chaotic scenes at Kenyan football matches, sparking urgent calls for respectful sportsmanship.

Under his leadership, Kenya qualified for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, an achievement that inspired a new generation of players and fans alike.

Additionally, during his tenure, Kenya, along with neighboring countries Tanzania and Uganda, secured the rights to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Otieno also played a part in helping Kenyan players secure opportunities abroad and guided the U-17 women’s national team to qualify for the FIFA U-17 World Cup—a first in the country’s history.

Despite these successes, Otieno’s career has been met with challenges.

In 2021, he was handed a six-month ban by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) after a controversial incident in Comoros, where he allegedly tore COVID-19 test documents for Harambee Stars.

FKF president Nick Mwendwa flagged off the two-day event on Monday aimed at professionalizing and commercializing FKF Premier League clubs that was attended by top clubs and FIFA officials.

This led to a $20,000 fine and restrictions on attending subsequent matches.

Nevertheless, Otieno’s focus remains unwavering, driven by his dream of seeing Kenyan football grow.

«Nick, the current FKF president, and I are different. I was an official in the organization but stepped down to show what I can bring to Kenyan football. My goal is to ensure that football in the country develops and grows,» he stated firmly.

Shimanyula is one of seven candidates who have thrown his hat in the ring for the position of FKF President.

Otieno’s passion for the game extends beyond administration; he is a trained coach with experience working with grassroots teams such as Komarock Stars, Timber Wolves, Bistro FC and Kayole Youth.

Between 2015 and 2016, he coached MYSA Kayole Zone before fully joining FKF. His deep-rooted understanding of the challenges facing both players and coaches at the grassroots level has fueled his vision for a better future in Kenyan football.

Otieno’s hopes rest not just on winning the upcoming elections but on continuing his mother’s legacy of resilience, determination and a strong moral compass in his quest to uplift Kenyan football.