Nairobi, Kenya, Concern is mounting among football fans over the airing of this weekend’s Kenya Premier League (KPL) fixtures after Azam TV, the Tanzanian-based broadcaster holding exclusive airing rights, announced a major disruption to its network services.
In a statement released on Friday, October 31, Azam acknowledged that its broadcasting operations had been affected by ongoing network issues but assured subscribers that efforts were underway to restore normal service.
“Dear valued customers, we are experiencing network issues that are affecting Azam TV services. We are currently working to resolve the issue,” read the statement. “Kindly be patient with us as we resolve the issues.”
The development comes as Tanzania grapples with widespread protests following the country’s disputed general election. Demonstrations have erupted across several cities, with reports of ballot boxes being destroyed and clashes between protesters and police. Despite the imposition of a 6 p.m. curfew, tensions continued to escalate through Thursday, October 30.
Internet monitoring group NetBlocks reported a nationwide communication blackout, with schools and government offices temporarily shut as authorities attempt to restore order.
The turmoil has raised legitimate fears over whether Azam TV’s coverage of this weekend’s KPL game week seven will proceed as planned. The broadcaster holds exclusive rights to air all KPL fixtures, meaning a prolonged outage could see matches go untelevised.
Nine fixtures are scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, with Kakamega Homeboyz currently topping the league on 13 points, followed closely by Gor Mahia in second place. Defending champions Kenya Police FC, however, continue to struggle, languishing in 16th position after a difficult start to the season.
As both fans and clubs await updates from Azam, the blackout underscores how regional instability can ripple beyond borders, threatening not only political order but also the simple joys of weekend football.
