Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), the state-run media organization of Kenya, has issued a public apology for a technical satellite challenge that resulted in the failure to transmit the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier match between Gabon and Kenya on Thursday evening.

In a statement released by the management, KBC expressed regret, stating, "We sincerely apologize to Kenyans for failing to transmit the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier match between Gabon and Kenya on 16th November 2023 at 7 PM due to a technical satellite challenge. Kindly note that this has been rectified, and we look forward to uninterrupted broadcast in the future. KBC, Your True Sports Partner."

The incident left Kenyan football enthusiasts disappointed as they were unable to watch the crucial Harambee Stars game against Gabon in Franceville.

Ababu Namwamba, the Cabinet Secretary for Sports, also conveyed his sincere apologies via his X (formerly Twitter) account, acknowledging the frustration experienced by Kenyan fans.

"Last night KBC Channel 1 let down Kenyan fans with satellite difficulties that occasioned failure to screen the Harambee Stars game vs Gabon in Franceville. We owe Kenyans a sincere, unequivocal and unambiguous apology for this disappointment. You sure deserve better. POLENI SANA," Ababu stated.

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Namwamba, in a subsequent tweet, commended KBC for offering a genuine apology, recognizing it as a display of character.

He also pledged support to enhance the capabilities of KBC Channel 1, emphasizing the need to address years of neglect.

"A sincere apology is a show of character. Thank you, KBC Channel 1. We will help enhance your capabilities, after so many years of neglect," Ababu acknowledged in a later tweet.

While KBC has rectified the technical issues, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of robust broadcasting infrastructure, especially during high-profile events such as World Cup qualifiers.

The management's commitment to providing uninterrupted broadcasts in the future indicates a dedication to ensuring that Kenyan viewers do not face such disappointments again.