Fake agent leaves Kenyan footballers homeless in Indonesia

Two aspiring Kenyan professional footballers, Brian Andaje and Sunday Majimbo, have returned home after a harrowing experience in Indonesia, where they were left homeless and penniless due to a suspected football scam. The players believed they were heading to Indonesia for genuine contract opportunities with professional clubs.

Upon arrival in December 2025, Andaje and Majimbo discovered that no clubs were expecting them. The man who posed as a football intermediary, promising them contracts, became unreachable, leaving the players stranded with no income. They faced periods of homelessness, sleeping on the streets at one point, and relied on support from relatives, friends, and local communities while moving between temporary shelters.

Their safe return was facilitated by a joint intervention from the Indonesian Professional Footballers Association (APPI), the Kenya Footballers Welfare Association (KEFWA), and the Kenyan Embassy in Jakarta. The International Federation of Professional Footballers (FIFPRO) reported that KEFWA contacted its Indonesian counterpart, APPI, which then provided immediate support, including covering daily living expenses and temporary accommodation.

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During one of the most difficult periods of our lives, APPI stood by us with genuine care and compassion. They didn’t just help us solve our problems – they gave us hope when we had almost lost it. We will always be grateful for everything they did for us.

This incident has reignited warnings about the dangers of fake football agents and unverified recruitment offers targeting African footballers seeking opportunities abroad. "During one of the most difficult periods of our lives, APPI stood by us with genuine care and compassion. They didn’t just help us solve our problems – they gave us hope when we had almost lost it," Andaje stated, expressing gratitude for the assistance.

Majimbo echoed his compatriot's sentiments, describing the support as unforgettable. "This experience reminded us that there are still people and organisations that truly care about the wellbeing of footballers," he said. The case serves as a stark reminder for athletes to thoroughly vet any offers and agents before committing to opportunities overseas.

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This experience reminded us that there are still people and organisations that truly care about the wellbeing of footballers. We will never forget the support we received from APPI, KEFWA and the Kenyan Embassy.