Kenyans Will Watch The 2026 World Cup For Free As Treasury Approves Kbc Broadcasting Deal, Mbadi Says
img_tag = ("Forget expensive sports packages and subscription fees — every Kenyan will watch the 2026 World Cup for free after the government just approved a massive deal with KBC.
Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi confirms that the government has green-lit funding for Kenya Broadcasting Corporation to secure the rights for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The announcement means all 104 matches will air on free-to-air television, reaching every corner of Kenya without anyone paying a shilling for premium sports channels.
This decision changes everything for millions of Kenyans who normally crowd into bars and restaurants during major football tournaments because they can't afford DSTV or other paid subscriptions. From the vibrant viewing centers in Nairobi's estates to rural trading centers where entire communities gather around a single television, the World Cup will now be truly accessible to everyone.
The timing couldn't be better for ordinary Kenyans who are already feeling the pinch of high living costs. Instead of spending precious M-Pesa credit on daily subscriptions or walking long distances to find a place showing the matches, families can now enjoy football's biggest spectacle from the comfort of their homes. Matatu operators and small business owners who usually see customers disappear during major sporting events can now plan viewing parties that actually benefit their communities.
KBC's return to major sports broadcasting marks a significant shift in how Kenyans access international content. The state broadcaster, which once dominated Kenyan airwaves before satellite television took over, now gets a chance to reclaim its position as the go-to destination for major events. This move also signals the government's recognition that access to global sporting events shouldn't be a luxury reserved for those who can afford premium packages.
The 2026 tournament, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will feature 48 teams for the first time in World Cup history. With Kenya's national team currently pushing for qualification under coach Engin Firat, there's even a possibility that Harambee Stars could be playing in front of their home audience on free television.
This announcement raises an important question about the future of sports broadcasting in Kenya — will this deal set a precedent for other major sporting events, or is the World Cup a one-time exception?