Anxiety as conundrum over Bandari Queens' owenership escalates

A fresh ownership tussle is bubbling under the surface at Bandari Queens, a club currently competing in Kenya’s Women’s National Super League (NSL).

Reports circulating online suggest that Kenya Ports Authority - which runs Kenya Premier League side Bandari FC - has quietly pulled the plug on its sponsorship and support of the team formerly known as Fortune Ladies.

The fallout stems from internal conflicts and friction that has been simmering within the leadership ranks.

Originally acquired by Bandari FC to fulfill CAF regulations requiring Kenya Premier League clubs to run women's teams, Fortune Ladies were absorbed into the Bandari family in 2023 while still in Division One.

Under the new badge, Bandari Queens rose rapidly, finishing second in the NSL last season — just behind champions Kayole Starlets.

But now, the partnership has hit a dead end.

“We had an MOU with them for one year, and it’s over now,” confirmed Bandari CEO Tony Kibwana.

“We want to move forward independently. KPA (Kenya Ports Authority) was not pleased with the persistent tug-of-war and the negative perception surrounding the Queens setup.”

Kibwana also stated that the matter is currently in the hands of the Football Kenya Federation (FKF)’s Leagues and Competition Committee, awaiting a decision on the next steps.

“If FKF rules that Bandari Queens remain in the NSL, we will accept that. But if they say Fortune should take over, we’ll also comply. We want to handle this transition amicably, even if it means starting afresh at the County level,” added Kibwana.

Interestingly, just last month, Bandari Queens renewed contracts for 20 players on six-month deals as part of their 2025–2026 preparations.

They also disbanded the existing technical bench, indicating a major shake-up. However, the team has yet to report for pre-season training—another sign of uncertainty.

Samuel Sanya, the former team manager of Bandari Queens/Fortune Ladies, confirmed the split had been communicated—but only verbally.

“Yes, they called me and said they want to end the merger due to some issues, which weren’t very clear. As of now, we’re in limbo. We don’t know what’s next,” Sanya said.

He added that the Fortune Ladies camp has yet to decide how to proceed, especially given the financial challenges of operating an NSL-level team without backing.

Amid the turmoil, some players who recently signed new deals are reportedly scrambling to find new clubs before the transfer window slams shut.