Written by Cynthia Mukuria, CFK Africa Community Storyteller
The 2025-2026 season for the Kibera Soccer FC was nothing short of historic. In June, the team emerged as Division One Zone B Champions, earning promotion to the FKF National Super League. The achievement was not only momentous for the players but for the wider Kibera community, proving what young people from slums can accomplish through resilience, discipline, teamwork, and belief.
Striker Collins Kariuki (Karis) was a driving force behind this incredible season, with 20 goals and 9 assists under his name. He finished second in the joint Division One Top Scorers chart, a goal shy away from the Top Scorer who managed to net 21 goals.
Karis shares his football journey and the meaning of this big win with us:
1. How did you come to play and love football?
My love for football started with my dad. He used to play football in our neighbourhood in Waithaka, an informal settlement in Dagoretti, and watching him really inspired me. He encouraged me from a young age, and with the support of my coaches, my parents, and countless hours playing with my friends after school, my passion for the game kept growing. I never imagined football would take me this far, and I am truly grateful for the journey.
2. What challenges did you face growing up as a young athlete in an informal settlement?
Most of the challenges I faced were due to financial constraints. It was difficult to afford transportation to training, and after intense practice sessions, I would head home, unsure whether there would be food to eat. Despite these limitations, I never considered missing training because every session counts.
Many young people in informal settlements are tempted by crime and the promise of quick money, but football teaches you that success requires patience, discipline, and consistency. Staying focused hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been worth it.
3. How were you recruited to Kibera Soccer FC?
I had been playing for another football club that unfortunately dissolved, but I was committed to keep playing. I asked a friend I knew who played on another team if he could speak to his coach and see if there was any chance I could join them. This happened to fall within the player registration window, and I kept following up. My persistence paid off and eventually, Coach Teka agreed to give me an opportunity. That’s how my journey with Kibera Soccer FC began.
4. What role do you play on the team?
I’m a striker, so my main responsibility is scoring goals. But football is truly a team sport, and I always share the credit with my teammates. We’ve built great chemistry this season, and their support has made it much easier for me to do my job. Our teamwork has been one of the biggest reasons behind our success.
5. What do you think was the key to the team’s success in winning the Division One League this year?
Without a doubt, togetherness has been the key to success. We trusted each other and stayed focused on the same goal. The teamwork and chemistry within the squad have been incredible. Some of the players have been together for several seasons, and that has helped us build trust both on and off the pitch.
The support around the team also mattered. We are incredibly grateful for the support wereceive from CFK Africa and Cloudflare. They have stood by us every step of the way, and we honestly couldn’t have achieved this without them.
6. What does bringing home the trophy mean for the Kibera community?
Football means a lot to the Kibera community. Our fans show up for us every match, and their support keeps us motivated. Bringing the trophy home gives hope to young boys growing up in informal settlements. It shows them that their dreams are possible, no matter their circumstances. Football may last for a season, but the impact on the community lasts much longer. It creates opportunities, inspires the next generation, and gives young people something positive to work towards. A boy who grows up supporting Kibera Soccer FC can one day earn the chance to wear the same jersey.
7. How are you involved in the community outside of football?
I volunteer with a football academy in my home community in Dagoretti. I came through that academy myself, so it’s very fulfilling to return and support the next generation. I mentor the Under-13 and Under-15 teams. Beyond football, we participate in activities like visiting elderly homes and organising community clean-ups together. I genuinely enjoy giving back because I believe this talent isn’t mine alone; it’s something meant to be shared with the community that helped shape me.
8. What are your career and life goals?
My dream is to become a great footballer and play professionally outside Kenya one day. I’ve admired Mamelodi Sundowns FC (the South African professional football club) ever since I was in high school and watched them on TV. They’ve always inspired me, sparking my deep appreciation for African football. I hope to keep growing as a player and to represent my country at the highest level possible.
***In honor of our 25th anniversary in 2026, this story is #13 of 25 Stories of Change, shared throughout the year and featuring youth and communities whose lives have been transformed by CFK Africa.