What You Should Never Do with the Kenyan Flag

Supporters of Mogadishu City FC were filmed desecrating the Kenyan national flag at Nyayo National Stadium following their team’s 3–1 loss to Kenya Police FC in a CAF Champions League match on 20 September.

Videos shared online show several Somali fans engaging in actions considered disrespectful under Kenyan law. In one clip, individuals are seen placing the flag on the ground and kicking it, while another person rubs the flag against his lap in a mocking manner.  

Another video shows a fan dressed in traditional Somali clothing snatching a flag from a Kenya Police FC supporter and throwing it to the ground. The Kenyan flag is protected under the National Flag, Emblems and Names Act (Cap 99), which sets strict rules on its handling and display. 

The law forbids actions such as allowing the flag to touch the ground, displaying it when damaged or soiled, or flying it upside down. Violations may result in a fine of up to KSh5,000, a jail term of up to six months, or both. 

The Act also limits the use of the flag on private vehicles and prohibits its use for commercial purposes without authorisation. In response to the incident, Mogadishu City FC issued a formal apology, condemning the actions and distancing the club from the behaviour of the fans involved. 

“On behalf of the Mogadishu City Club, we strongly condemn this act and extend our deepest apologies to the Government and People of Kenya,” the statement read. “Such behaviour has no place in football or in the spirit of friendship and sportsmanship that this competition represents.”

The club further expressed support for any legal measures Kenyan authorities may choose to take and urged its supporters to respect national symbols and values.

“Football is a game of unity, love, and mutual respect, and we call on all supporters to uphold these values and promote peace and harmony in our communities,” the statement added.

The incident followed a strong performance by Kenya Police FC, who now look ahead to a possible second-leg fixture and a chance to meet Sudan’s Al Hilal SC in the next round of the tournament.