Two Kenyan footballers, who spent months stranded in Indonesia after falling victim to a fake football intermediary, have finally returned home.This was made possible thanks to a coordinated rescue effort involving the Kenya Footballers Welfare Association (KEFWA), the Indonesian Professional Footballers Association (APPI), a FIFPRO member union and the Kenyan Embassy in Jakarta.Download our Mozzart Sport App for more newsThe rescued pair, Brian Andaje, formerly of Mully Children (MCF), and Sunday Adam Majimbo, travelled to Indonesia in December 2025 after being promised professional contracts by an individual posing as a football intermediary.However, the promised opportunities never materialised, with the alleged agent cutting off communication soon after their arrival.##NAJAVA_MECA_9857637##Left without contracts, income or accommodation, the two players survived on support from relatives, friends and well-wishers and, at one point, were forced to sleep on the streets.Their fortunes changed after KEFWA learnt of their plight and immediately activated FIFPRO's international network by contacting APPI in Indonesia.The Indonesian player union quickly established contact with the duo and stepped in with emergency support.Rising Starlets forward set for UEFA Women's Champions League football after sealing deal in LithuaniaAPPI catered for the players' day-to-day living expenses and temporary accommodation before the Kenyan Embassy in Jakarta provided them with shelter during the final three weeks leading up to their journey home.Meanwhile, KEFWA worked closely with the players' families and coordinated efforts with stakeholders in Kenya to facilitate their safe return.Harambee Starlets set to cash in big after CAF announces new WAFCON prize moneyReflecting on the ordeal, Andaje expressed his gratitude to the organisations that came to their aid."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," he said.Majimbo echoed those sentiments, saying:"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."KEFWA President James Situma said the successful rescue demonstrated the importance of collaboration between player unions across the globe."This case demonstrates why strong cooperation between player unions is so important. We are grateful to APPI for responding so quickly and to the Kenyan Embassy for its commitment throughout the process. Together, we were able to ensure that Brian and Sunday returned home safely to their families."Harambee Stars coach backed for Bafana Bafana job ahead of Pitso MosimaneSituma also urged footballers to verify overseas opportunities before travelling, warning that many continue to fall victim to fake agents and unverified intermediaries."Every year, players are approached with opportunities that seem attractive but have not been properly verified. We encourage footballers to contact their player union before making decisions about moving abroad. Seeking advice early can make all the difference and help prevent situations like this from happening again."Ksh400m-valued Harambee Stars prospect set to work under Dick next seasonThe rescue highlights the strength of FIFPRO's global network of player unions in protecting footballers facing challenges abroad.It also serves as a timely reminder of the dangers posed by fake football agents and unverified intermediaries who lure players with false promises of overseas careers.
88